Likely before Sir Keir Starmer even had time to hand in his Number 10 keys, Russia sent a timely reminder of the threat it poses to Andy Burnham. As the new PM prepared to take charge of the country for the first time on Monday, one of Vladimir Putin’s warships was again near our waters.
The Neustrashimy told the Royal Navy’s HMS Tyne (which had been keeping a close eye) of its intention to fire up its artillery guns, around 40 nautical miles south of Plymouth. This was, thankfully, just an exercise. While unusual, there’s no suggestion the Russian Baltic Fleet frigate has broken any rules — it was in international waters during the 30-minute live-fire gunnery drills.
Russian naval activity around UK waters
It also asked HMS Tyne to move to a safer distance, which she did. The exercise happened on Monday morning and the timing — shortly before Mr Burnham became Prime Minister — does not seem a coincidence. Straight out of the Russian playbook.
Regardless, it’s clearly yet another example of increased Russian naval activity around UK waters.
Burnham urged to get serious on defence
So perhaps, Mr Burnham should ditch the dad-dancing and prove he is serious on defence. Our reputation as a European defence powerhouse has been left in tatters after more than a year of stagnation, backdropped by decades of cuts.
After all, how can we efficiently stand up to Mr Putin if we can’t even publish a document about spending plans on time? Thus far, we’ve heard very little from the new Labour leader when it comes to defence. The very serious issue only got a fleeting mention in his first speech as Prime Minister.
“That is the fair and sustainable way to bring the welfare bill down, to meet our fiscal rules, and to honour our commitments on defence to our international partners,”... how enlightening.
Easing the cost of living crisis and ending rough sleeping — two of Mr Burnham’s key pledges — are incredibly important and honourable ambitions. But if the security of our country is undermined, these actions will mean little and clarity is needed now after months of dilly-dallying with the much-delayed Defence Investment Plan.
John Healey appointed Chancellor
Appointing John Healey — someone who understands the pressures facing our forces inside out from his time as defence secretary — as Chancellor is a wise move. Finding an additional £4.7 billion to fund the DIP will be among his top priorities, but will likely be easier said than done.
Our brave men and women in uniform will be eagerly awaiting to hear more about Mr Burnham’s vision for the Armed Forces. They deserve the best equipment and support available, but this of course comes at a premium.
The question is, will Mr Burnham be prepared to make the tough changes to grant them this at an increasingly pivotal point in our security? The moment for victory jigs is over — time is of the essence to ensure our defences are strong and our support to allies is steadfast.
