‘Whole cabinet’ recognises need to spend more on defence, minister says

Government Consensus on Defence Spending

The UK government has reached a consensus on the urgent need to increase defence spending, with key figures like Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasizing that the entire cabinet and government recognize the mounting global pressures that necessitate increased investment in the armed forces. Reynolds, speaking on Sky News’ Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips, dismissed claims that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is planning to overrule Chancellor Rachel Reeves on defence funding. He stressed that the whole government, including the Chancellor, acknowledges the importance of defence as a cornerstone of national prosperity. Reynolds highlighted that the UK has already taken steps to bolster its defence budget, with a £3 billion increase in the last budget, and assured that the June spending review will outline the roadmap for reaching the target of 2.5% of GDP allocated to defence.

Calls for Increased Defence Investment

Sir Keir Starmer has reportedly held private meetings with the Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, and other senior military leaders, who are advocating for defence spending to rise to 2.65% of the economy. This comes amid growing concerns about global security and the need for the UK to strengthen its military capabilities. However, The Sunday Times reported that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reluctant to allocate additional funds for defence this year, citing fiscal constraints. Despite this, sources close to Sir Keir suggest that he is prepared to make the final decision on defence spending and may override the Chancellor if necessary. The UK’s current defence spending stands at around 2.3% of GDP, below its target of 2.5%, with no clear timeline for when the increase might occur.

The UK’s Current Defence Spending and Future Plans

The UK’s defence spending has become a focal point of political debate, with the government aiming to reach the NATO-recommended target of 2% of GDP, but currently falling short at 2.3%. While the government has already committed to a £3 billion increase in defence funding, critics argue that more needs to be done to address the rapidly changing global security landscape. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized that the June spending review will provide a clear plan for achieving the 2.5% target, though he did not confirm whether this would involve additional funding. The government is under increasing pressure to demonstrate its commitment to defence, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and shifting global alliances.

Shifting Global Dynamics and the UK’s Role

The UK’s defence strategy is being influenced by significant geopolitical shifts, including the involvement of US President Donald Trump in discussions about a potential peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. Trump’s special envoy, Keith Kellogg, has indicated that European leaders may not have a seat at the negotiating table, raising concerns about the marginalisation of European voices in resolving the conflict. This has prompted Sir Keir Starmer to seize the initiative on defence spending, ensuring that the UK plays a more prominent role in European security. The UK is also preparing for an emergency meeting of European leaders in Paris, convened by French President Emmanuel Macron, to discuss the crisis in Ukraine and the broader implications for NATO.

Expert Opinions on Defence Strategy

Rachel Ellehuus, head of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), has urged the UK and other NATO members to treat defence spending with greater urgency. She argued that the alliance’s 2% target is insufficient given the current global threats and called on the UK government to invest in both conventional military capabilities and innovation. Ellehuus also emphasized the importance of addressing personnel shortages and improving recruitment to ensure the armed forces are equipped to meet future challenges. Her comments reflect a broader consensus among defence experts that the UK must take bold action to strengthen its military and reinforce its commitment to NATO.

The Path Forward for UK Defence

As the UK navigates an increasingly complex and unpredictable global landscape, the government is facing growing calls to prioritise defence spending and modernise its military capabilities. With the June spending review approaching, all eyes are on whether Sir Keir Starmer will deliver on his promise to increase defence investment and meet the 2.5% target. The Prime Minister has described the current moment as a “once in a generation opportunity” for the UK, US, and Europe to work together and strengthen their alliances. However, achieving this vision will require not only increased funding but also a coherent strategy that balances short-term needs with long-term ambitions. Sir Keir’s upcoming meetings with European leaders in Paris and his planned discussions with President Trump in Washington will be critical in shaping the UK’s defence policy and ensuring that it remains a key player in global security.