International Payments (Audit) Bill

A Bill to make provision to require cost-benefit analysis and independent audit before payments are made by the Government to a foreign country or international organisation; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Sir Christopher ChopeConservative

Last Updated

14 December 2018

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would require the government to carry out a cost-benefit analysis and obtain an independent audit before any payment is made to a foreign country or international organisation. It aims to improve accountability and ensure value for money in the UK's international spending.

Key Points

Before a payment to a foreign country or international organisation is made, the government must conduct a cost-benefit analysis.
An independent audit must be carried out on such payments.
The requirements apply to payments funded by the UK Government, increasing scrutiny of international spending.
The bill includes related provisions (connected purposes) to widen accountability and oversight.

Progress

Currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would typically move to committee stage for detailed examination, followed by Report Stage and Third Reading, before potential passage to the Lords.

Who is affected?

UK Government departments and ministers responsible for international paymentsUK taxpayers and public fundsRecipients of UK payments abroad (foreign governments and international organisations)Independent auditors and cost-benefit analystsParliament and its scrutiny bodies

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - International Payments (Audit)

1 Jan 1970

This Bill has been dropped by its sponsoring MP and will not progress any further.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

International Payments (Audit) Bill | TrackPolitics