Sir Keir Starmer weighs major defence spending increase
Sir Keir Starmer is considering accelerating plans to increase military spending to three per cent of GDP by 2029, following calls for tighter UK defence measures amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, reports BritPanorama.
In a recent statement, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for Britain to “go faster” in bolstering its defence capabilities. Currently, the country allocates approximately 2.3 per cent of GDP, equivalent to £66 billion, to defence, with an estimated additional £17 billion required annually to meet the three per cent target by 2029–30.
This shift in spending strategy comes on the heels of a warning from Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, head of the Armed Forces, about a potential £28 billion funding shortfall within the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Starmer indicated that he could reach the NATO target before the next election, rather than delaying until the 2030s.
Reports suggest that discussions to expedite the Defence Investment Plan have taken place in Downing Street, as revealed by the BBC. The plan aims to outline how the forthcoming Strategic Defence Review will be implemented, although its release has faced delays due to rising costs and other considerations.
Starmer highlighted the significance of international cooperation, stating, “We want a lasting peace but that will not extinguish the Russian threat. We need to step up. That means on defence spending, we need to go faster.” He also emphasized the importance of collaborating with “like-minded countries, particularly in Europe,” and called for a strengthened European NATO.
Despite the government’s assertions about the necessity of increased military expenditure, Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge has described the three per cent spending goal as “a pipedream.” As such, there remains considerable debate surrounding both the feasibility and urgency of the proposed investment plans within the UK’s defence infrastructure.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson has maintained that the MoD is committed to delivering the investment plan, even as uncertainties linger regarding budget allocations and strategic priorities.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the decisions made by the UK government in the coming months will have long-lasting implications for national security and international alliances.
The UK government’s focus on increasing defence spending is not merely a reaction to immediate threats, but reflects a broader strategy to enhance military readiness and global partnerships in an increasingly volatile world.
