Kate Osamor MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for International Development, responds to signals from Downing Street that foreign aid budget is set to be cut.

“The signals from Downing Street - which suggest the 0.7% figure could be cut - are deeply alarming and should be of great concern.

"The UK foreign aid budget is the lifeblood for the indispensable work that aid agencies carry out, enabling them to provide development and humanitarian support to poor and developing nations all over the world. Labour has consistently maintained its support for the 0.7% figure and the vital assistance the foreign aid budget provides.

"Ultimately, the Government will have to pass a bill through parliament to enact this change and this is an issue on which the Labour Party will not let up on”.