Public doesn't back aid spending any more, says minister

Published: 6/20/2025
Public doesn't back aid spending any more, says minister
Minister Douglas Alexander suggests the public no longer supports international aid spending, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer cutting the budget for defense. Alexander highlights the importance of investing in aid but acknowledges the challenge in gaining public approval. Despite criticism from charities, aid spending was reduced to 0.5% of national income in 2021, with plans to decrease it further to 0.3% by 2027 for defense funding. The UK public continues to advocate for aid as essential for national security, urging leadership to rebuild support.