"Hilary Benn has experience, commitment and strong knowledge of the issues. He has a tough battle ahead to ensure international development not only remains high on the political agenda but receives the money that is desperately needed. He also has a vital role to play in putting more of the world's children in school, reversing the tide of deaths from HIV/AIDS and helping poor farmers who are reeling from unfair global trade rules.
"A welcome first step would be to set a date for making good on Britain's pledge to put 0.7% of our national wealth towards fighting global poverty.
"As a member of the House of Commons we will once again have a Secretary for International Development who is accountable as an elected representative. Let's hope he will work with his cabinet colleagues to ensure that the needs of the world's poorest people are placed at the heart of government."
Jessica Woodroffe, head of policy, ActionAid.