Overseas Aid (UK-based Consultants) — [Mr George Howarth in the Chair]

Part of the debate – in Westminster Hall at 3:18 pm on 20 November 2012.

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Photo of Lynne Featherstone Lynne Featherstone The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development 3:18, 20 November 2012

I will not give way, because I am coming to my peroration.

In conclusion, contractors can perform an important role supporting the delivery of programmes that make a difference on the ground. They can, and do, deliver impressive results, often in incredibly challenging environments, but we look to them to do more. If they read the debate, they will know that they need to think about how they bid, knowing that our focus will be even sharper and our demand for value for money even greater. Our demand that they put more emphasis on how they will encourage local people along their supply chain to bid for work for them and for us is important. I am adamant that we will strive to maximise value for money, results and impact in every possible way. I am acutely aware of how important that is to those whose lives we seek to improve, as well as to UK taxpayers.