Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is pressing ahead with his defence investment plan (DIP) despite having announced his intention to leave Number 10. Downing Street confirmed the plan will be unveiled at the NATO summit on July 7 in Ankara, ensuring it is published before any potential successor, including Andy Burnham, could take over.
Starmer's Lame Duck Status
Sir Keir will attend the NATO summit with his authority undermined by the knowledge that he is about to leave office, making him what is commonly known in politics as a "lame duck." His refusal to give the military the increased funding they reportedly needed led to the resignations of two ministers, including Defence Secretary John Healey earlier this month.
Chancellor's Assurance
Speaking in the Commons, Chancellor Rachel Reeves insisted the defence investment plan "will meet the scale of the challenges facing the country." She stated: "The Ministry of Defence are producing the DIP that will meet the scale of the challenges and meet the moment with increased readiness. I am confident that the new DIP will be published before the NATO Ankara summit."
Healey's Criticism
When former Defence Secretary John Healey resigned earlier this month, he wrote in a letter to Sir Keir that the DIP financial settlement he was offered "falls well short of what is required for defence and the country at this dangerous time."
Burnham's Silence
Andy Burnham has been tight-lipped about how he would approach defence spending and has yet to provide concrete policies in that area. James Cartlidge, the Conservative shadow defence secretary, said that the "one thing above all else" any future Labour Prime Minister must do is "boost defence, cut welfare, and spend the savings on the British Armed Forces."
Starmer's Final Weeks
At one of his final Cabinet meetings, Sir Keir insisted he wanted to "resolve difficult issues" in his remaining weeks to support his successor. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman confirmed these included the publication of the defence plan.
