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Britain has withheld direct budget support to Ethiopia because of dissatisfaction with the government's political record, but the Department for International Development denied UN reports that the sum withheld amounts to �50 million.

"The amount to be withheld has yet to be decided," the spokesperson said. "The �50 million figure is therefore not accurate. The money withheld with be channelled through NGOs and our other partners so Ethiopia's poor will continue to receive vital support, " he added.

A DfID news release issued the previous day stated:

Hilary Benn, the UK Secretary of State for International Development today visited Ethiopia as part of a three day trip to East Africa. He held separate meetings with Prime Minister Meles, families of some of political detainees, members of the opposition and representatives of international NGOs and aid donors, including Action Aid.

Mr Benn expressed his continuing deep concern to the government about human rights and governance in Ethiopia. Speaking after his meeting with PM Meles in Addis Ababa, Mr Benn said:

�The UK is seriously concerned about governance, human rights and the detention of, and serious charges faced by, opposition, media and members of civil society. Concerns have been raised with me about the ongoing clashes involving students and security forces in schools and colleges across the country, and there should be an independent investigation into the alleged recent human rights violations in Oromiya.

�There needs to be a prompt, fair and open judicial process for those currently detained. I also hope that international jurists will be able to observe the trial, and that an independent international organisation will be able to inspect all the places where people are currently being detained.

�The only way forward for Ethiopia is through inclusive political dialogue, and the continuation of the democratisation process which we are ready to support.�

During his visit, Mr Benn also looked at ways in which the UK can continue to support poor people, including those affected by the current food crisis and drought. The Secretary of State went to Arba Minch in the south of the country to see the impact the nationwide safety-net programme is having on improving the lives of nearly 5 million people. DFID and other multinational donors have backed the programmes which give the poorest an opportunity to earn cash and food in a predictable, long term way, helping them out of poverty.

Mr Benn then went to outline the UK�s position on aid and budget support:

�Because of our concerns over the political situation I have told the Prime Minister that we can not provide direct budget support under current circumstances. However, the UK is fully committed to supporting the people of Ethiopia in their fight against poverty so we are looking with other donors at how we can provide support to the poorest in other ways.

�I saw for myself this morning how successful the productive safety net programme is, including the help it is giving in drought-affected areas. �

�We are looking with government and other donors to develop a new protection of basic services grant to deliver education, health and water to the poor. This would mean tighter financial reporting and stronger local accountability so that the funds reach the poorest people.�



Source: OneWorld.net