I WAS upset to read the criticism of UK government's overseas aid by North West MEP Louise Bours.

One of the successes of overseas aid is in education.

The fact that more people can read and write, particularly women, is very important.

It will help women have more control of their lives, help them gain employment and look after their families.

Over a period of time this should bring down the birth rate.

Overseas aid is used to limit female genital mutilation.

This is a barbaric and unnecessary practice which often affects women’s health for the rest of their lives.

When disasters occur the overseas aid budget ensures that relief is available.

After the earthquakes in Nepal or the recent hurricane in the West Indies, help is needed as soon as possible to save people's lives from starvation and disease.

The overseas aid budget is 0.7% of national income, that is what we earn as a country.

When compared to what is spent by other government departments, this is a very small amount indeed.

A Vernon, Pensby