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UK development minister quits over PM Starmer's cut to aid budget

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on February 28, 2025

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· Last updated: January 25, 2026

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UK development minister quits over PM Starmer's cut to aid budget
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LONDON (Reuters) - British international development minister Anneliese Dodds resigned on Friday over Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to slash the foreign aid budget in order to boost defence

UK Development Minister Resigns Over Aid Budget Cuts

LONDON (Reuters) - British international development minister Anneliese Dodds resigned on Friday over Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to slash the foreign aid budget in order to boost defence spending.

Starmer on Tuesday announced he would increase annual defence spending, in a signal to U.S. President Donald Trump that Britain could boost Europe's security.

The increase would be funded by cutting the overseas development budget from 0.5% of GDP to 0.3%.

Humanitarian charities said they were "stunned" and "appalled" by the decision, warning it would damage UK influence and have a devastating impact on those they support.

(Reporting by Catarina Demony; writing by Sachin Ravikumar, editing by William James)

Key Takeaways

  • Anneliese Dodds resigns over aid budget cuts.
  • PM Starmer reallocates funds to defence spending.
  • Aid budget reduced from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP.
  • Charities warn of negative humanitarian impact.
  • Decision aimed to strengthen UK-US security ties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main topic?
The article discusses UK Minister Anneliese Dodds' resignation over PM Keir Starmer's decision to cut the foreign aid budget to increase defence spending.
Why did Anneliese Dodds resign?
Anneliese Dodds resigned due to disagreement with PM Starmer's decision to cut the foreign aid budget, which she opposed.
What are the implications of the aid budget cut?
The cut in the aid budget could weaken UK influence and negatively impact humanitarian efforts, according to charities.

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