I’ve been clear that I oppose this Government’s decision to cut the UK aid budget from 0.7 to 0.5 per cent of GDP. This only saves approximately £4 billion but will have a significant impact in supporting people in need across the world, especially during a global pandemic.

I wrote to the Chancellor and urged him to reconsider this decision.

I have recently received this response from the Treasury. I am disappointed that the Government will not reverse this cut. I will continue working with my frontbench Labour colleagues to press the Treasury keeps to a return to the 0.7 per cent target as soon as possible.