The Government has pulled the plug on UK-based "awareness projects" funded with cash intended for overseas aid.
International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell said he was imposing an immediate freeze on new funding for projects, and was withdrawing support totalling half a million pounds from five existing schemes, including a London-based Brazilian dance troupe and a "Global Gardens Schools Network".
Some £6.5 million committed by the Department for International Development under the Labour administration to a new programme called The Global Development Engagement Fund will be suspended, said Mr Mitchell, a Conservative member of the coalition Government.
And all other UK-based projects will be scrutinised in a drive to refocus aid spending on priority areas.
Mr Mitchell said that projects would be tested to ensure they are providing maximum value for money, with a halt on funding for any project that fails to meet tough results-based criteria.
"People want to see British aid money saving lives and educating children in the world's poorest countries," he said.
"There is a legitimate role for development education in the UK but I do not believe these projects give the taxpayer value for money.
"At this difficult economic time, it is crucial that our money is spent where it makes the most difference. Today I send a clear signal: value for money will be our top priority for aid."
