Oxfam reaction to Bill Gates' report to the G20

Oxfam spokesperson Luc Lampriere said:

“Gates’ timely message is that there will be no lasting global economic recovery without tackling poverty. He brings much needed impetus and ambition to a Summit nearly paralyzed by Europe’s woes.”

“Gates has put development back into the spotlight by showcasing both traditional aid and smart new ideas like a Financial Transation Tax, a charge on shipping emissions and corporate transparency."

“Gates is piling the pressure on rich countries to deliver their aid promises. It is shocking that they are cutting this lifeline to the poorest. And he is specifically pressurising the Europeans to ensure their Financial Transaction Tax is used to help the poor and the planet. We hope Angela Merkel is listening.”

“Gates highlights how aid has driven growth and development over the past 50 years and is just as vital now. Cutting aid today – and not pursuing innovative sources of finance – will undermine global recovery while doing little to balance rich country budgets.”

“Gates’ enthusiasm for a Financial Transaction Tax and a carbon charge on shipping and aviation should encourage champions like France, Germany, and Brazil and convince sceptics like Canada, UK and the US. We fully support Gates’ call that the lion’s share of this revenue should flow to fight poverty at home and abroad, and tackle climate change.”

“Gates makes a welcome call for G20 countries to endorse legally binding transparency requirements for companies listed on their stock exchanges. Oxfam agrees wholeheartedly, and would add that the G20 must get serious about tax havens, which cost developing countries billions in lost tax revenue.”

“G20 leaders must act boldly and swiftly in order to make the reasonable and feasible ideas contained in the Gates report a reality.”

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Oxfam at the 2011 G20 Summit, Cannes