'A national disgrace': fury over £100m aid deal between UK and Saudi Arabia

The controversial aid deal between the UK and Saudi Arabia announced on Friday has been branded a “national disgrace”.

Amid further outcry over Britain’s relationship with the Gulf state, government ministers have signed a £100m aid agreement with Riyadh to coincide with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to London this week.

The government described the deal as a “new long-term partnership” to improve livelihoods and boost economic development in some of the world’s poorest countries.

But the accord has been greeted with fury by opposition MPs and the aid sector, with grave concerns expressed about Saudi Arabia’s role in the Yemen conflict.

Kate Osamor, the shadow international development secretary, said the agreement “made a mockery” of Britain’s reputation as a global leader in delivering humanitarian aid.

Source: Theguardian