Defence Minister Luke Pollard squirmed on BBC Breakfast on Wednesday as he repeatedly refused to answer a simple question about whether Andy Burnham, the likely successor to Keir Starmer, was informed about the funding plans for an extra £15 billion spending in the Defence Investment Plan.
Awkward Silence on Live Television
Host Sarah Campbell pressed Pollard on reports that £4.7 billion will need to be found at the next Budget, leaving the next prime minister in a difficult position. She asked directly: “Did it come as a surprise to Andy Burnham?” Pollard initially praised Burnham, saying he hopes he becomes the next leader because he is “a big fan,” before dodging the question and mentioning “regular talks between Downing Street and Andy’s team about the defence investment plan.”
When Campbell reiterated that reports suggest Burnham was not told about the £4.7 billion shortfall, Pollard fell silent for several awkward seconds. He eventually replied: “So, I’m not privy to those conversations between Downing Street and Andy’s team.” He then pivoted to discuss his hopes for the budget, citing “increasing” threats and the need to modernise Britain’s defences.
Defence Investment Plan Details
Labour’s long-awaited Defence Investment Plan was published on Tuesday, arriving 10 months behind schedule. The plan confirms an additional £15 billion for the Ministry of Defence, but this falls short of the £28 billion needed to meet recommendations accepted by the government in last year’s Strategic Defence Review.
The delay and funding gap have drawn criticism from opposition MPs. Tory MP and former soldier Tom Tugendhat slammed the plans, stating: “Today’s defence announcement is pointless. It is committing money over many years that cannot be guaranteed because the people making the promise won’t be there to keep it.”
Defence Secretary Responds
Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis defended the plan, saying its success will be judged by whether it commands the support of armed forces personnel. Speaking in the House of Commons, he said: “Ultimately, the success of this defence investment plan will be measured by whether it commands the support of those amazing men and women who serve in our armed forces. They remain our most important asset, respected by those who stand with us, feared by those who stand against us. We know that they are equal to any task, and with this defence investment plan, we give them the means to match their courage.”
