Defence Plan to Be Unveiled Despite PM's Resignation
The UK government intends to release its long-anticipated defence investment strategy before the NATO summit in Turkey on July 7, even as Sir Keir Starmer prepares to step down as Prime Minister. Downing Street has confirmed that while no new significant policies or spending decisions will be made during the leadership transition, the controversial defence proposals will move forward.
This decision follows the resignations of two defence ministers, including Al Carns, who served as armed forces minister and expressed concerns that the plan was inadequate for current threats. The continuation of the plan could lead to disagreements with Sir Keir's successor, who may wish to re-evaluate defence spending priorities upon taking office.
Leadership Race and Defence Spending Perspectives
Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Labour leader and Prime Minister but will remain in his role until a replacement is chosen. Andy Burnham, MP for Makerfield and currently the only declared candidate for the leadership, has previously indicated support for increased defence spending, suggesting it could be funded by reducing welfare costs through employment initiatives.
Should either Burnham or another candidate, such as Al Carns who is reportedly considering entering the race, become Prime Minister, they will face the choice of either adhering to the existing defence plan or revising it, potentially causing further delays. Members of Parliament have already voiced concerns that repeated postponements of the plan's publication are undermining the UK's credibility among its allies.
Financial Commitments and International Pressure
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed in the House of Commons that the plan would be published before the NATO summit, stating it would involve "more money, spent more effectively and meet the scale of the challenges we face." Under Sir Keir's leadership, defence spending has seen an increase. However, former Defence Secretary John Healey resigned, arguing that a planned rise to 2.68% of GDP by 2020 fell "well short" of the 3% target he deemed necessary.
Reports suggest the Ministry of Defence has requested an additional £28 billion by the end of the decade but has reportedly been offered only £10 billion. Sir Keir had instructed government departments to reduce investment budgets to free up funds for defence, though there are no indications of spending exceeding what was outlined in the plan seen by Healey.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has emphasized the expectation for all alliance members to present "clear, concrete and credible plans" for increasing defence spending at the Turkey summit. European nations are under pressure to boost their defence budgets, particularly in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and warnings from former US President Donald Trump about defending allies who do not adequately contribute to their own defence.
The Conservative shadow defence secretary, James Cartlidge, questioned the leadership on defence matters in the House of Commons, asking, "Who is in charge of defence in the United Kingdom at a time of war on two fronts? Is it the prime minister or the right honourable member for Makerfield?"
As part of Sir Keir's commitment to an "orderly" transition, Burnham is scheduled to receive briefings from civil servants. Downing Street has also authorized access talks for "prospective candidates" for the next Labour leader.
Source: PM to push ahead with controversial defence plan despite resignation