Dodds Resigns Over Starmer's Aid Budget Cuts

Anneliese Dodds, the UK International Development Minister, has resigned in protest against Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to cut the foreign aid budget to fund increased defense spending. Dodds, a former shadow chancellor, argued that this move could bolster Russia and China's global influence and damage the UK's international commitments, particularly in regions like Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine. Her resignation highlights a growing rift within the Labour Party, as members from the soft left express concerns over Starmer's shift to the right and fiscal policies. While Dodds supported the need for increased defense spending, she criticized the lack of a broader discussion on fiscal rules and taxation as alternatives to the deep aid cuts. The decision has sparked debate about the balance between military and development spending, with critics arguing that the reduction in aid undermines the UK's soft power and global standing. Dodds' departure is the most significant ministerial resignation under Starmer, reflecting internal party tensions and the potential for further dissent over spending priorities.