Watchdog proposed for aid agencies

Plans for an independent watchdog to investigate the work of aid agencies in the developing world will be announced by the Tories today.

Andrew Mitchell, the shadow International Development Secretary, will tell the Tory conference: "Aid agencies should be subject to independent evaluation, not merely self-evaluation as at present."

He has asked the Tories' policy group on foreign affairs to consider the plan. The Conservatives have already matched the Government's pledge to double aid spending to 0.7 per cent of GDP by 2013 but are determined to ensure better value than Labour.

The move is also designed to counter fears that money is often diverted into the accounts of corrupt leaders.

Mr Mitchell will say that aid is right morally and in Britain's national interest. He will also call for a much tougher response to the Darfur crisis.