A new exclusive poll has revealed that a majority of Labour members believe the government's decision to slash the UK aid budget is excessive and damaging to the party's reputation. The Survation survey of over 1,000 Labour members found that 61 per cent think the reduction from 0.5 per cent to 0.3 per cent of Gross National Income (GNI) by 2027 is 'too much'. This move, intended to fund increased defence spending, has sparked significant discontent within the party.
Damage to Reputation
According to the poll, 78 per cent of Labour members believe these cuts have harmed the party's reputation. Among them, 37 per cent stated the damage has been 'a lot', while 41 per cent said 'a little'. The reductions follow a similar policy by Donald Trump in the United States and have severely impacted vital global programmes, including HIV prevention and treatment, infectious disease control, maternal health, and education, particularly in African nations.
Leadership Implications
The issue is putting pressure on Keir Starmer's leadership. More than half of Labour members surveyed consider international development an important priority for any future leader, with 11 per cent deeming it 'very' important. The poll also indicates that the issue significantly influences leadership preferences: 40 per cent of members said they would be more likely to vote for a candidate who prioritises international development and aid.
In response, Cooper has defended the aid cuts as necessary, outlining where the reductions will fall. However, the poll suggests that the party's grassroots are deeply unhappy with the direction of policy, and this could shape the next leadership contest.
