Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has demanded that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer resign if he cannot demonstrate that the long-delayed defence investment plan will safeguard the nation's security. Speaking at a press conference in central London, Badenoch also offered to provide Conservative MPs' votes to support welfare cuts through Parliament, aimed at funding increased defence expenditure.
The defence investment plan (Dip) faced turmoil last week when Defence Secretary John Healey resigned, citing the plan's failure to meet the requirements set by defence chiefs. After months of delays, the plan allocated £13.5 billion, falling short of the £28 billion over four years that officials deemed necessary to modernise Britain's armed forces. New Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis is not expected to secure additional funding, with any changes likely focused on reallocating existing resources.
Badenoch outlined three tests the plan must meet to protect national security. First, defence spending should rise to 3% of GDP by 2030, with a minimum of £28 billion over four years. Second, spending must not be "backloaded" into the next Parliament, ensuring readiness. Third, the plan should deliver more lethal and operationally effective armed forces. She asserted that if Starmer cannot meet these tests, he should resign and make way for a capable leader.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard defended the government, stating that Labour is reversing the "hollowing out" of the armed forces under the Conservatives. He acknowledged wanting more defence funding but stressed the plan itself is sound. Pollard remained in his role at Healey's request, emphasising the need for continuity.
Badenoch also referenced the government's struggles with welfare reforms, offering to collaborate with any Labour leader to cut benefits and fund defence. She ruled out scrapping the state pension triple lock and opposed conscription, questioning how mandatory military service could be implemented without proper funding.
A No 10 spokeswoman confirmed the Dip is being finalised with the new Defence Secretary and will be published in due course.
