Sir Keir Starmer urged to raise taxes for defence spending instead of cutting aid, say Labour MPs

Furious Backbenchers

Left-wing Labour MPs are calling on Sir Keir Starmer to increase taxes to fund defence spending rather than slashing overseas aid, as revealed in a recent letter circulated among MPs.

Public Opinion

New polling by YouGov shows that two-thirds of Brits support boosting defence spending even if it means reducing foreign aid, highlighting a divide in public opinion on the matter.

Political Decision

The letter, organized by Labour MP Brian Leishman, argues that cutting aid is a political choice, not an economic necessity, and suggests taxing the wealthiest individuals as a more popular option to finance military expenses.

Internal Party Divide

Labour MPs critical of the aid cut are split into two groups: one vocal faction pushing for a complete reversal of the decision, and another, more moderate group, including ministers, quietly campaigning for at least a delay until 2026 to allow charities time to adjust.

Backlash and Tensions

Recent backlash against Sir Keir Starmer over the aid cut led to the resignation of International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds, while efforts to address concerns and prevent further discord within the party are underway with meetings planned by Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey.