UK hits back at criticisms from World Bank over aid cuts

UK Development Minister Andrew Mitchell has hit back at criticism over aid cuts for the world's poorest, saying the UK was still a very dominant force.

Mr Mitchell said the UK was the third-biggest donor to the World Bank's fund for the poorest countries in the world.

The World Bank had accused the UK of causing "real pain" with recent cuts to foreign aid.

The UK halved payments sent to the World Bank's International Development Association fund. It now sends 500 million pounds a year.

The government said it was a temporary cut until Britain's public finances were back in shape.