The government's foreign policy reflected its desire for independence from the powerful nations of Europe and North America. It was also influenced by the many left-wing movements of the period, such as environmentalism, the peace movement, and anti-racism. However, in many cases it was simply catching up to the rest of the world, much of which had already recognised the People's Republic of China and cut sporting ties with South Africa. The decision to block a proposed tour by the South African Springbok rugby team was only made once it became clear that international disapproval of the tour would seriously harm the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch. Before the 1973 election, Kirk had promised not to get involved in the sporting contacts issue. Aid to the developing world (which had virtually static for at least two decades) was also significantly increased, with official development aid increasing from 0.22% of GNP in 1972 to 0.55% of GNP by 1975. This measure was seen as characteristic of the "new morality" in foreign policy pursued by the Third Labour Government.