Conclusion
265. We are concerned that the current and legitimate
debate over drug pricing might distract from consideration of
the real crisis — the crisis of poverty. It is the denial
of resources, services and rights which has done so much to exacerbate
the spread of HIV/AIDS and control of the epidemic will only be
secured when such poverty issues are addressed. With inroads into
poverty we would expect to see progress in the reduction of infection
rates and standards of care.
266. HIV/AIDS is not only a result of poverty
— it also entrenches poverty still further. We have concluded
that development programmes, including those of DFID, have much
work to do in assessing the impact of HIV/AIDS on the whole spectrum
of development activity. There is an urgent need to redesign development
programmes, policies and approaches, particularly in sub-Saharan
Africa, to take account of the new realities caused by HIV/AIDS.
267. Are we doing enough? The answer is clearly
not. More resources are in our view necessary, especially for
sub-Saharan Africa. It is not, however, only a question of resources
but of political determination, solidarity, and effective organisation
of a response. DFID has done much good but also has the potential
to do much more. We look forward to the forthcoming DFID strategy
paper on HIV/AIDS refocusing the efforts of the United Kingdom
Government on a successful response to the epidemic.
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