Statement on Foreign Aid

08 Jun 2021

Professor Jackie Taylor, President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow has commented on the news that the UK Government is to proceed with its planned cuts to overseas development assistance (ODA). 

Expressing her dismay over the cuts being actioned despite widespread opposition from many sources, including a number of MPs from the Prime Minister’s party, Professor Taylor said:

“The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is one of the UK Medical Royal Colleges and a member of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges.

“Our members and their organisations are deeply concerned by the proposed cuts which will have a devastating effect on the communities which rely on the funding to improve health, provide training of healthcare professionals and save lives. The cuts will have a particular effect on children and women’s health.

“The UK has a fine tradition of being a leader amongst countries which assist those less fortunate than ourselves. The pandemic has shown it is no respecter of borders or populations and there has been a global fight to attempt to contain it.

“I feel grateful to live in a country where vaccines have been readily available, where excellent healthcare is freely accessible and there has been a combined effort to overcome the challenges of the pandemic. Many other countries are not as fortunate and it has been heart-breaking to witness the impact on these communities. We have an opportunity and a responsibility to share our expertise and to provide practical support.

“As the G7 leaders gather, I trust that our collective humanity will prevail as we acknowledge that our global health is inter-dependent.”