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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Millie Cooke

Starmer’s Defence Investment Plan explained – why John Healey quit as defence secretary

John Healey Sir Keir Starmer
  • John Healey dramatically resigned as defence secretary , accusing Sir Keir Starmer of failing to provide adequate funding for the defence spending plan.
  • Healey stated that the financial settlement he received for the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) fell significantly short of requirements, with crucial extra support delayed until after 2030.
  • The government's plan, despite a commitment to spend 3.5 per cent of GDP on defence by 2035, would only see spending rise to 2.68 per cent by 2030.
  • The drive to increase Britain's defence budget is set against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine and the Middle East conflict, with Sir Keir hoping to rebuild the military and curry favour with President Trump.
  • Military figures and former defence secretaries have criticised the 'hollowing out' of Britain's defences, urging substantial investment and suggesting funding could come from tax increases or welfare cuts.

IN FULL

What is Keir Starmer’s plan to increase UK defence spending and is it affordable?

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