Global Britain

Shadow Secretary of State Keir Starmer criticised the Prime Minister's statement, arguing that it was a distraction from pressing domestic issues such as rising unemployment and high covid-19 death tolls. He emphasised Labour's commitment to maintaining DFID's effectiveness and its role in tackling global poverty and injustice, expressing scepticism over the proposed merger and questioning how this restructuring would impact staff numbers and budget allocation.

The MP welcomed the Prime Minister's statement, asking if it was a merger rather than a takeover and whether it would enhance the role of international development in foreign policy. He also confirmed that the Government’s commitment to invest in and support the world’s poorest remains strong.

The MP criticised the Prime Minister for using a pandemic as an excuse to dismantle structures for international development. He highlighted expert advice against merging DFID and questioned the government's decision to suspend all non-priority projects.

The MP welcomed the statement, aligning it with other CANZUK countries, Denmark, and Norway. He requested that technical expertise from DFID should be preserved in the new Department.

The MP expressed disbelief at the decision to merge FCO and DFID, arguing it undermines soft power and international standing. She questioned how ODA spend would now be scrutinised and protected in light of the new structure.

Called for a stronger, more authoritarian voice on the international stage and advocated for a grand strategy linking Foreign Office, Trade, Defence, and DFID. He is concerned about the timing of the integration due to an enduring emergency that must be prioritised over the current review.

Asked the Prime Minister to ensure that the new Department will maintain the same level of global political and economic influence developed under DFID while maximising opportunities for UK exporters.

Stressed that Britain’s international aid should focus on helping the world's poorest and criticised the move as a step backwards in tackling global poverty during a crisis.

Congratulated the Prime Minister on his reforming agenda and asked for reassurance that this is an opportunity to drive UK interests globally and protect vulnerable populations. He also inquired about the UK’s role in international organisations such as the G7, OECD, WHO, and WTO.

Asked for assurance that Northern Ireland would play a full part in free trade agreements, promoting the UK through diplomatic missions, and contributing to UK aid overseas.

Welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment to international aid and expressed concern about protectionism. He asked for a commitment to fighting protectionism in trade.

Asked if the priority of the new Department would be to help the most vulnerable people in the world or to increase the UK’s voice abroad.

Commented on social distancing rules and their impact on the Prime Minister's global ambition.

Asked for a guarantee that linking aid to foreign policy is not the objective, referencing the Pergau dam scandal in 1994.

Expressed ambition for global Britain to be a world leader in clean technologies and export of English sparkling wine, creating high-quality jobs.

The right hon. Gentleman criticises the Prime Minister for prioritising Whitehall reorganisation over addressing Brexit, the pandemic, and civil unrest.

Chair of the House urging Members to ask shorter questions and allow the Prime Minister to provide concise answers.

Welcomes the merger but raises concerns about values that will underpin global Britain’s international actions, particularly regarding Israel's annexation of Palestinian territories.

Questions why the Government have not prioritised aerospace and defence industries in their vision for global Britain.

Emphasises that championing values should be at the heart of global Britain’s strategy on the world stage.

Critiques the move as shooting ourselves in the foot and morally reprehensible, suggesting it is about buying British goods rather than aid.

Welcomes the move to integrate trade with development aid for comprehensive dialogue across various sectors to help developing countries achieve their goals.

Asks whether tackling corruption should be a priority for the new Department and seeks assurance of its commitment to this cause.

Raises concerns about lack of consultation with humanitarian experts before making such significant changes.

Confirms the decision will result in a stronger, more efficient approach for aid and diplomacy.

Suggests using Britain’s influence to address domestic issues such as job losses rather than focusing on international matters during a national crisis.

Questions the involvement of trade in the new Department and seeks assurance that it will work hand in glove with aid efforts.

Asks how Britain’s quarantine policy is compatible with its vision for global influence during a pandemic.

Requests guarantees that poverty reduction programmes will continue to focus on education and health, particularly the education of girls, post-merger.

Critiques the timing of the merger, arguing it distracts from addressing urgent crises such as the pandemic and trade issues.

Supports the merger, seeing it as an opportunity for a new global Britain to align with CANZUK partners.

Questions whether the Home Office will work collaboratively with other departments and if the colonial mindset will persist, hindering partnerships in the developing world.

Endorses the merger but suggests that a junior minister from DFID should attend Cabinet meetings to maintain commitment to eradicating poverty.

Strongly criticises the decision, describing it as insignificant compared to pressing issues such as high death rates and economic collapse.

Concerned about the implications for addressing colonial legacies and continuing efforts towards equality and development.

Welcomes the merger, believing it will place aid and diplomacy at the centre of foreign policy and strengthen ties with Commonwealth countries.

Asks for a guarantee that the plans will not diminish the UK's commitment to fair trade and addressing poverty around the world.

Views the merger as an opportunity to lead in tackling climate change, support green technology development, and create jobs within the UK.

Questions the operational details of the merger, particularly regarding the structure of leadership in foreign missions and the role of trade commissioners.

Expresses concern about maintaining scrutiny and accountability for UK aid spending post-merger.

References former Prime Minister David Cameron's criticism of the merger decision, questioning its impact on expertise and respect overseas.

Welcomes the end of bureaucratic wrangling between FCO and DFID staff, expecting a more unified approach to support allies and those in need abroad.