To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of how much overseas aid paid (a) directly, and (b) through the European Union, reaches its intended destination; and how much is used for purposes for which it was not intended.

The Department for International Development (DfID) has rigorous systems and procedures to oversee its funding and ensure that aid delivers results for its intended recipients. DfID is robust in investigating and pursuing allegations of unintended use of its bilateral programme, and co-operates closely with partner organisations, including the EU, to ensure that aid channelled through other bodies is subject to rigorous controls. Two DfID staff members are seconded to the European Commission to work with the EU on aid effectiveness and impact evaluation.

DfID is reviewing all its aid programmes to ensure that UK aid is effective, represents value for money and brings real benefit to the word's poor. This includes an assessment of contributions to the EU and UN organisations under the multilateral aid review.