Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what steps he is taking to work with the leaders of local communities in developing countries to tailor aid and education to their needs.

The approach that the Department for International Development takes to the design and implementation of development programmes emphasises the importance of local context. A network of Country Offices enables DFID to ensure we have staff with expert local knowledge and the ability to work directly with local partners.

The rules that govern our programming stress the importance of ensuring that the views and experiences of citizens and beneficiaries inform the design and delivery of our programmes. The department is currently working to improve the guidance and advice we offer staff on gaining the views of local communities and on adapting our programmes to changing local needs and circumstances.