Public doesn’t back aid spending any more, says minister
By: | Published: 2025-06-20 05:03:00 | Source: www.bbc.com
Political reporter
The public no longer backs spending on international aid, Trade Minister Douglas Alexander has suggested.
The former international development secretary under Gordon Brown told BBC Radio 4’s Political Thinking with Nick Robinson that even if money was not tight, “the argument would have to be made” for investment in foreign aid.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a cut in the international aid budget to fund an increase in defence spending earlier this year.
The move was strongly criticised by charities, which argued that it would be devastating for vulnerable people worldwide, as well as undermining the UK’s interests.
Alexander said he had long believed it was “morally right” and…
