MEPs lead way on international development

SNP European Candidate, Cllr Drew Hendry, has called on all Scottish candidates in the European election to follow the SNP lead and sign up to the NIDOS Manifesto, committing MEP candidates to work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals if elected. All six SNP candidates have signed the pledge - the only party to do so.

NIDOS is an umbrella body which represents 67 Scottish organisations involved in international development.

Commenting Mr Hendry said:

"Scottish jobs and communities are at the top of the SNP's agenda.
However, as a responsible nation, we have an international duty to work together to tackle global poverty.

"We have strong links with other countries, many of which would benefit from aid, and we want to help. It is small and medium sized European countries that are leading the world.

"The Scottish Government has already doubled Scotland's international aid budget and is building strong links with Malawi and other Sub-Saharan nations.

"The EU also plays a critical role in global affairs as the world's
biggest provider of development aid. The European Parliament does important work in this field and the SNP has a long record of working in Europe to support EU commitments.

"SNP MEPs will work in Europe and with both the Scottish Government and stakeholders including NIDOS members to ensure the goals laid out in the pledge are met.

"Working together, Scotland's Government and aid organisations have what it takes to make a real difference to lives across the world."

Notes:

A copy of the NIDOS Pledge can be found here:
http://www.bond.org.uk/data/files/commitment_to_international_developmen...