Overview

• Government files released to the National Archives reveal Bob Geldof threatened to resign in August 2004 after only one meeting over what he called “emerging conclusions” pushed on the Commission.
• In a letter to Sir Nicholas Stern, Geldof warned the body risked losing credibility as “a laughable grotesque” if seen to advance predetermined government policy.
• Geldof also complained that involvement from some commissioners, including those from Africa, was minimal and questioned the secretariat’s role.
• Sir Nicholas Stern replied that the document was meant to foster discussion and that British political input had been “comparatively minor,” prompting Geldof to continue his service.
• The Commission’s recommendations later informed the 2005 Gleneagles summit, where G8 leaders agreed to double aid to Africa and extend debt relief.