Lib Dem’s unveil international views ahead of the G20

by simongalton on 23 March, 2009

I thought you might like to hear about Liberal Democrat proposals for the G20 summit in London on 2 April 2009. Below is a brief overview of the Parties proposals. I will of course follow developments at the G20 summit closely. The full paper is available on the Liberal Democrat website and if you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch. 

Simon

 

“The global financial crisis has created a real emergency for the world and the G20 summit must respond to prevent a deep and protracted recession. But this emergency is not just happening in the UK, the EU or the US; it is global, with potentially devastating consequences for the world’s most vulnerable people and fragile states. In responding to a crisis, which they had no part in shaping, developing country governments, unlike their western counterparts, do not have the luxury of digging deep and raiding the coffers. They need urgent support. 

The Liberal Democrats believe that the G20 summit offers the opportunity for the international community to re-vitalise its commitment to development. We have set out a paper which outlines the development priorities and calls for the adoption of a ‘G20 Compact’ to achieve them.  

Delivery of the outstanding aid pledges from the Gleneagles G8 and a route map to reach the UN’s 0.7% ODA target are just the first step. The UK should also deliver an emergency £1 billion stimulus package for developing nations, including action promoting climate change adaptation through a ‘Green New Deal’.  

We also want to see action on social protection with extra funding for vital services such as the World Food Programme and the establishment of a global fund to support developing country welfare systems. And as private capital becomes scarce we want development finance institutions to be given emergency grants to allow them to invest in and support viable businesses in the developed world.”

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