The East Belfast MP was speaking after the leaders of the G8 countries agreed new guidelines that intend to strengthen rules on tax evasion and corporate tax avoiders.
Naomi Long MP said: “The Lough Erne Declaration could help reduce world hunger. Too many companies use international laws and tax havens to avoid paying billions of pounds in taxes in developing countries.
“However, tax transparency and government transparency are not mutually exclusive. They need to go hand-in-hand. Tax being paid where it is due and the proper amount being handed over needs to be followed by full scrutiny of governments to ensure it is properly spent.
“If we could ensure that developing countries have all the taxes that they are entitled to, then perhaps we could avoid more humanitarian disasters. The declaration to reduce protectionism and open up trade could also play a part in stimulating economic growth in areas at risk from wide-scale hunger.
“While this announcement will not solve world hunger, I am at least pleased that the G8 leaders have agreed actions that can help.”
ENDS