A group of influential Labour backbenchers is pressing Andy Burnham to restore the UK’s commitment to international aid by reinstating the 0.7% of GDP spending target. This initiative is part of a broader effort to redefine the Labour Party’s stance on foreign policy and reinforce the UK’s role as a leader in global development.
Renewed Focus on International Development
In a forthcoming collection of essays from the New Economics Foundation (NEF), prominent MPs are advocating for a recalibration of the UK’s foreign policy priorities. This initiative arises from discussions involving key figures such as David Miliband, a potential candidate for foreign secretary in a Burnham-led government, and Mark Malloch-Brown, a former UN deputy secretary-general.
Fleur Anderson, a former minister with a background in international development, is among those urging Burnham to commit to the 0.7% target once again. She proposes a structured ten-year plan to achieve this goal, allowing future administrations to adjust spending during crises without abandoning the overall trajectory. “What matters is not mechanical annual targets, but establishing a credible long-term trajectory that partner governments, multilateral institutions, NGOs, and local organisations can plan around,” Anderson remarked.
The Political Landscape
The 0.7% target was originally established under Gordon Brown’s administration but was abandoned by Rishi Sunak in 2020, ostensibly as a temporary measure during the Covid-19 pandemic. Keir Starmer’s decision to implement further cuts to aid, reallocating funds towards defence, has drawn criticism and led to the resignation of development minister Anneliese Dodds. Anderson argues that neglecting development commitments is a “false economy” that ultimately exacerbates global instability.
Liam Byrne, chair of the Commons Business and Trade Committee, has also weighed in, suggesting that the UK leverage its upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2027 to advocate for a global wealth tax. He contends that the UK, known for its expertise in institutional design, can help create a viable tax framework that benefits both wealthy and poorer nations.
Revitalising Global Leadership
The call for a renewed agenda comes as development campaigners urge Starmer’s government to articulate a bold vision for the G20. Historical precedents set by Tony Blair and Gordon Brown during the UK’s G8 presidency demonstrate the potential for transformative international agreements, notably in debt relief for impoverished nations.
In addition, Gareth Thomas, another former Labour minister, has suggested using the G20 and the subsequent G7 presidency to initiate discussions on the future of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which will expire in 2030. He highlights the need for a tangible initiative to rekindle public faith in multilateralism and cooperation.
Concrete Proposals on the Table
Thomas has proposed that the UK’s G20 presidency could aim to mobilise $1 billion for a multi-year immunisation initiative targeting children in fragile states. He cites the successful collaboration between Gavi and the International Rescue Committee, which has provided vaccines in conflict zones at a cost-effective rate of $1 per dose. “An initiative of this scale would align with Britain’s strategic interests while exemplifying Labour’s values,” he asserted.
Danny Sriskandarajah, NEF’s chief executive, emphasises that the time has come for the UK to adopt a proactive foreign policy stance. “While much of recent foreign policy has been defensive, there is a clear opportunity for the UK to lead on progressive issues,” he stated. The NEF has laid out several practicable proposals that could steer the UK back towards its historical role in international development.
Why it Matters
The push to restore the 0.7% aid target and advocate for a global wealth tax reflects a critical juncture for the Labour Party as it seeks to redefine its identity in the face of evolving global challenges. By prioritising international development, the UK has the potential to not only enhance its global standing but also address the root causes of instability that threaten both national and international security. The outcome of these discussions could shape not only Labour’s future policy direction but also the broader landscape of global cooperation and aid effectiveness.
