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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

Parliament last updated

14 December 2018

In Plain English

AI-generated

May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.

The bill would require the government to carry out a cost-benefit analysis before making payments to foreign countries or international organisations. It would also require an independent audit of those payments and related activities to improve transparency and value for money.

Key Points

  • Requires a cost-benefit analysis before any government payment to a foreign country or international organisation.
  • Requires an independent audit of those payments.
  • Aims to improve transparency and accountability over overseas spending and related activities.
  • Covers payments and “connected” purposes to extend scrutiny to related financial arrangements.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading stage in the House of Commons. It originated in the Commons, with the first reading having taken place in 2017.

Who is affected?

UK taxpayers / the public purseGovernment departments and ministers responsible for international paymentsForeign countries and international organisations receiving UK paymentsIndependent auditors and audit firms engaged to perform auditsParliamentary committees / oversight bodies

Generated 21 February 2026

Bill Stages

1st readingCommons

5 Sept 2017

2nd readingCommons
Committee stageCommons
Report stageCommons
3rd readingCommons
1st readingLords
2nd readingLords
Committee stageLords
Report stageLords
3rd readingLords
Royal Assent

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.