Scotland’s aid to some of the world’s poorest nations is to double over the next four years, the government confirmed today.

Linda Fabiani, Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture said the Executive’s International Development Fund would increase from £4.5m to £9m by 2011.

Speaking at a meeting of the Network of International Development Organisations in Scotland (NIDOS), Ms Fabiani said that although government aid to the southern African state of Malawi – worth £3m a year – would continue, other nations would also benefit.

“Scotland…has strong links with other countries, many of which would benefit from assistance, and it is right that we do not forget them,” she said.

A policy review, also launched today, will determine how the extra funding will be distributed. “As we move towards doubling the international aid budget, I want to ensure our money is not wasted and that our support is properly targeted to achieve positive, sustainable outcomes,” said Ms Fabiani.

Judith Robertson, head of Oxfam in Scotland, welcomed the announcement and urged the Executive not to delay in making the extra money available. "We will be pressing them to clarify the timescale in which they plan to implement this increase, and deliver on this commitment as quickly as possible," she said. "We know the difference this will make to the lives of some of the world’s poorest people."

Ms Robertson also welcomed the Executive’s commitment to work with international development organisations to ensure the additional aid had the greatest possible impact on world poverty.