Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has spoken with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to allay concerns over Britain's defence commitment following the shock resignation of Defence Secretary John Healey on Thursday. Mr Healey's departure has raised doubts about whether the UK will allocate sufficient funds to modernise and expand its armed forces to counter emerging threats.
A Downing Street spokesperson detailed the conversation, stating: "Both agreed that in the face of shared and evolving threats, Allies must step up together – strengthening collective defence and delivering more, faster. The Prime Minister updated on plans for the Defence Investment Plan, underlining his commitment to publish it ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara."
The spokesperson added: "The NATO Secretary General welcomed the UK’s increased investment in defence as an important contribution to the Alliance and to meeting the threats we face. The Prime Minister also reiterated his commitment to reaching 3% of GDP on defence in the next Parliament, making clear that national security will remain the Government’s top priority, backed by the hard‑edged decisions needed to deliver it. They agreed to stay in close contact."
The call comes after US Under-Secretary of Defence Elbridge Colby publicly urged Britain to demonstrate "urgency, scale, and determination" in its defence efforts. He stated: "There is again a great need for more British military strength at this critical time."
