Wednesday, December 28, 2005

Geldof to work with Conservative Policy Group

I am delighted to hear that David Cameron has recruited Bob Geldof to work in consultation with a new Conservative Globalisation and Global Poverty policy Group.

This group is set up in recogniton that millions of Britons want prosperity for themselves AND progress for the poor, whether in the same community or on the other side of the world.

During the election in May I mentioned that righting off third world debt is not the whole answer to helping poor countries - we need to help them develop their own economies through wealth creation. This is an area that this policy group will be developing and David Cameron has recruited in the help of the experts. Bob Geldof has probably got a greater understanding of Global Poverty in African countries than anyone else in the UK, and his non-partisan support will be invaluable.

Today our local radio station asked me whether this was just a vote grabbing move - No it is not. Bob Gledof has been very damning of the Conservative Party in the past, but on the issue of Globalisation and Global Poverty he and the Conservatives want the same outcome, so it makes sense to work together.

For more information visit www.globalpovertychallenge.com

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Sir Bob Geldof knows more about poverty in Africa, and has done more to alleviate it, than most aid officials. I am pleased that the government has sought his advice.

Patrick Gage, Chester
(exUSAID Officer)