In a recent development, Labour MPs are urging Andy Burnham to revive the 0.7% aid spending target, a policy once championed by Gordon Brown. This call comes as a group of influential backbenchers, including former ministers and policy experts, advocate for a reevaluation of foreign policy under a Burnham-led government. The project, supported by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) think tank, aims to address the current state of international development and aid spending in the UK.
One of the key figures in this movement is Fleur Anderson, a former international development specialist who has now entered politics. Anderson emphasizes the importance of a long-term commitment to aid spending, rather than focusing solely on annual targets. She proposes a 10-year plan to reach the 0.7% goal, allowing for flexibility during times of crisis. This approach, she argues, provides a stable trajectory for partner governments, multilateral organizations, and local entities to work towards.
The 0.7% target, established under Gordon Brown's leadership, was a significant commitment to international aid. However, it was abandoned in 2020 by then-Chancellor Rishi Sunak, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as a temporary excuse. This decision sparked controversy, as it went against the Labour Party's previous stance. The current Labour leader, Keir Starmer, further reduced aid spending and redirected funds towards defense, leading to the resignation of Anneliese Dodds, the development minister.
Liam Byrne, the chair of the Commons business and trade committee, highlights the UK's upcoming chairship of the G20 group of countries in 2027 as an opportunity to advocate for a global wealth tax. Byrne suggests that the UK, known for its institutional strength and coordination, can play a pivotal role in designing an effective wealth tax. This proposal aligns with the calls from development campaigners for the Labour government to set an ambitious agenda for the G20.
Gareth Thomas, another former Labour minister, proposes utilizing the G20 and the UK's G7 chairship the following year to initiate discussions on the future of the UN's sustainable development goals, which are set to expire in 2030. Thomas believes that the UK's leadership positions offer a chance to mobilize resources for development and demonstrate the power of cooperation. He specifically mentions the success of Gavi, a public-private vaccines alliance, in vaccinating children in war-torn areas, suggesting that similar initiatives could be pursued under a Burnham government.
The NEF's chief executive, Danny Sriskandarajah, acknowledges the potential for the UK to take a proactive approach in foreign policy. He emphasizes the need for a shift from defensive measures to proactive leadership on progressive issues. Sriskandarajah highlights the availability of concrete and practical proposals for development, wealth taxes, and the development of multilateral institutions.
In summary, the Labour MPs' call for Andy Burnham to restore the 0.7% aid spending target reflects a broader push for a reevaluation of foreign policy. The involvement of experienced politicians and policy experts, along with the support of think tanks like the NEF, underscores the seriousness of this movement. As the UK prepares for its G20 chairship, the pressure on the Labour government to address international development and aid spending is likely to intensify.
