Keir Starmer's wavering stance on reinstating the Department for International Development (DfID) has sparked significant backlash within the Labour Party and the international development sector. Initially, Starmer pledged to restore DfID, a department dissolved by Boris Johnson in 2020, labeling it a "giant cashpoint in the sky."

In an unequivocal commitment made last year on "The Rest is Politics" podcast, Starmer emphasized the necessity of a dedicated department to address global issues, describing the abolition of DfID as "totally misguided" and failing to recognize its value as a "massive asset." This strong statement gave hope to many that Labour would revive the independent department if it came to power.

However, recent developments reveal a shift in Labour's approach. Party officials have indicated that re-establishing DfID is merely one of several options under consideration. David Lammy, the shadow foreign secretary, is reportedly advocating for maintaining aid spending within the Foreign Office, albeit under a distinct agency with its own leadership. Proponents of this model argue it would be more cost-effective and less disruptive than creating a new department.

Critics, however, warn that housing aid within the Foreign Office risks politicizing humanitarian assistance, potentially using it as leverage for the UK’s foreign policy goals. Sarah Champion, Labour’s chair of the international development committee, underscores the importance of adhering to promises, particularly the pledge to restore DfID's independence, to maintain credibility in the run-up to the general election.

SOURCES

1st Video: Keir Starmer on rebuilding Labour, Tory leadership, and Brexit - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZlWLx0CmjY

2nd Video: Keir Starmer considers ditching Labour pledge to reinstate DfID - https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/jun/28/keir-starmer-considers-ditching-labour-pledge-to-reinstate-dfid-international-development

3. UK election: Labour rules out aid department or early return to 0.7% - https://www.devex.com/news/uk-election-labour-rules-out-aid-department-or-early-return-to-0-7-107788