09 March 2006

ActionAid comment on the new UN emergency fund launched today by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and UK International Development Secretary Hilary Benn.

Roger Yates, Head of Emergencies at ActionAid said: "Whilst a step in the right direction, it is important that people on the ground can get hold of this money, not just UN agencies and governments. For that to happen, distribution is key. Organisations that represent local people must be able to access these funds.

"Countries other than the UK must also commit substantial and long-term money if the fund is to make a difference. If not it will fail, with appalling consequences for the world’s poorest people in their time of need."