STORY
UK officials have discussed further reductions to the international aid budget as ministers look for ways to fund higher defence spending. The Financial Times reported that the talks follow earlier plans to reduce aid spending from 0.5% to 0.3% of gross national income by 2027.
The Government has committed to increasing defence spending in response to growing international security threats. Ministers have also faced pressure from NATO allies to go further, while campaigners and some MPs have warned that additional aid cuts could damage the UK’s influence and humanitarian work overseas.
The debate highlights the difficult choices facing the Government as it seeks to balance defence, diplomacy and public spending limits. Ministers have said the UK remains committed to international development, but the aid budget remains under pressure as defence priorities rise.