A group of influential Labour MPs is calling on Andy Burnham to reaffirm the party’s commitment to international development by reinstating the long-standing target of allocating 0.7% of the UK’s GDP to overseas aid. In a forthcoming publication by the New Economics Foundation (NEF), these MPs propose a strategic plan aimed at revitalising the UK’s role as a global leader in development initiatives.
A Vision for International Development
The NEF’s publication, which compiles insights from various MPs and policy experts, lays out a vision for a Burnham-led government to reassess and redefine its foreign policy approach. Notable contributors include David Miliband, a former foreign secretary and potential candidate for the role in a future Burnham administration, and Mark Malloch-Brown, a distinguished former deputy UN secretary-general.
Fleur Anderson, a former minister with a background in international development, articulates a compelling argument for Burnham to commit to returning UK aid spending to the 0.7% target. She proposes a 10-year pathway to achieve this goal, allowing for some flexibility during crises. “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 states in her essay.
The Historical Context of Aid Spending
The 0.7% target was initially enshrined in law during Gordon Brown’s premiership but was abandoned in 2020 by then-Chancellor Rishi Sunak, purportedly as a temporary measure in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead of reinstating this commitment, current Labour leader Keir Starmer chose to implement deeper cuts to aid, reallocating funds towards defence, a decision that resulted in the resignation of development minister Anneliese Dodds.
Anderson critiques this shift, arguing that neglecting development commitments is a misguided approach. “A more unstable world will not become safer because wealthy countries disengage from tackling the conditions that drive instability in the first place,” she asserts, underscoring the need for a robust focus on international aid.
Leveraging Global Platforms for Change
Liam Byrne, chair of the Commons business and trade committee, advocates for the UK to leverage its role as chair of the G20 in 2027 to facilitate discussions on a global wealth tax. As the UK prepares to assume leadership following the US, Byrne argues that it can build upon the groundwork laid by previous G20 leaders, such as South Africa and Brazil, to create a tax framework that benefits both affluent and developing nations.
Byrne’s vision aligns with the calls from development advocates for an ambitious agenda at the G20, reminiscent of the last Labour government’s successful efforts to secure debt relief for the world’s most impoverished countries during its tenure at the G8.
Future Goals and the Role of Multilateralism
Gareth Thomas, another former Labour minister, suggests that the G20, along with the UK’s subsequent chairing of the G7, presents a unique opportunity to initiate discussions on what will succeed the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, set to expire in 2030. He asserts that while these forums may not be sufficient for establishing global goals outright, they can ignite the necessary conversations to mobilise resources for development.
Thomas highlights the need for tangible examples of successful cooperation, citing initiatives like Gavi, the vaccine alliance, which has proven effective in delivering vaccines to children in conflict zones for just $1 a dose. He proposes that the UK’s upcoming G20 presidency could aim to mobilise $1 billion for a multi-year initiative to immunise one billion children living in fragile states, demonstrating both Britain’s strategic interests and Labour’s commitment to its core values.
Why it Matters
The push from Labour MPs to reinstate the 0.7% aid target and to redefine the UK’s foreign policy reflects a broader recognition that international development is crucial for global stability. As the world faces increasing challenges, from climate change to geopolitical tensions, the need for sustained commitment to aid becomes ever more pressing. By reclaiming its role as a leader in development, the UK can not only fulfil its moral obligations but also contribute to a more equitable and stable global community. The decisions made in the coming years will significantly shape the UK’s influence on the world stage and its commitment to fostering international cooperation.