Sir Keir Starmer last night insisted the Government will "give our armed forces the capabilities they need to defend Britain and keep our nation secure", after replacing John Healey.
Voice of the Mirror has its say...
John Healey’s resignation is undoubtedly a setback for Keir Starmer, coming at a particularly sensitive moment for him and his Government. With the Makerfield by-election next week, Labour would have preferred to be talking about its plans for the future rather than Westminster upheaval. Opponents will seek to exploit the timing, but voters are also capable of recognising that disagreements between senior ministers over national interests are part of governing.
Mr Healey is a respected public servant whose dedication to Britain's armed forces is beyond question. His concerns deserve to be heard. Yet it would be wrong to suggest Sir Keir does not share that commitment. The Prime Minister has consistently argued for stronger national security, increased defence spending and unwavering support for Britain's servicemen and women.
The challenge now is not to dwell on political drama but to move forward. At a time of growing global uncertainty, the country needs a Government focused on keeping Britain secure. Sir Keir must do exactly that.
Give those grieving after Air India crash transparency
Bhavika Patel still dreams of the husband she lost in the Air India disaster. A year on, she and dozens of other bereaved families are living with the same painful question: what really happened? Twelve months after the crash that claimed 53 British lives, too many relatives feel they are still being denied the answers they deserve.
They are not asking for sympathy. They are asking for transparency. If investigators are confident in their conclusions, all the available evidence should be subjected to full and open scrutiny. For Bhavika and the many families whose lives were shattered that day, this is about far more than a crash report. It is about truth, justice and preventing such a tragedy from happening again.
Save our social clubs
For generations, social clubs have been the beating heart of working-class Britain. They are places where friendships are forged, loneliness is eased, and communities come together. Too many have disappeared in recent years, which is why the £2.7 million investment is so welcome. These clubs are far more than cheap pints and bingo nights. They provide support, belonging and opportunity in places that are too often overlooked.
