Keir Starmer's decision to reduce UK overseas aid from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP to fund increased defense spending has sparked alarm among Labour ministers and MPs. Critics argue that this cut may harm the UK's soft power and support for developing nations, potentially exacerbating global issues including migration. While the increase in defense spending amidst current geopolitical threats is perceived as necessary, voices within the party suggest there could have been alternative methods to achieve this funding without sacrificing aid commitments. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner acknowledged the difficulty of the decision while emphasizing government responsibility for citizen safety.
Reducing our foreign aid budget reduces our soft power and support for developing countries which will impact us; it will make migration more likely.
The increase in defence spending is absolutely right but they could have done it another way.
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