The amount of overseas aid diverted to support refugees in the UK rose to £4.3 billion in 2023, with spending on 'in-donor refugee costs' increasing by £600 million. This represented more than a quarter of the UK's total aid budget.
Criticism has arisen regarding the diversion of aid funding to cover refugee costs, impacting the allocation for developing countries. The practice was called into question by MPs, accusing the Home Office of diminishing the ODA budget.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office highlighted that most of the increased spending on refugees was attributable to the Home Office. This has raised concerns, with the International Development Committee chair expressing worry over the trend.
Shadow international development minister criticized the Government's use of the ODA budget to support the asylum system, labeling it as 'sticking plaster politics' and 'terrible value for money'. This move was deemed questionable and concerning by various stakeholders.
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