Healey resigns as defence secretary amid military spending row

UK Defence Secretary John Healey resigned on Monday, citing a lack of adequate funding for the Defence Investment Plan (DIP). In a letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Healey stated the financial settlement for the DIP 'falls well short' of what is needed to defend the UK amid rising threats, including potential Russian attacks on NATO by 2030. Healey argued that the Treasury’s unwillingness to commit resources leaves the UK unprepared, particularly given increased demands since January due to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as new Arctic commitments. The DIP, delayed since autumn 2023, outlines funding for new equipment and infrastructure over the next decade, but Healey criticized the backloading of financial support, which he said undermines immediate operational readiness. The government had pledged to spend 3.5% of GDP on defence by 2035, but Healey insisted the UK should meet a 3% target by 2030. He warned that without sufficient funding, the military’s readiness would decline, increasing risks to personnel and national security. His resignation followed months of warnings about insufficient investment to meet growing demands on the armed forces. The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) from last year had promised billions for ammunition, jets, drones, and submarines, but Healey said the current settlement fails to deliver. Conservative shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge called the resignation a 'decent' move, stating Healey had 'no choice' given the government’s limited funding offer. Defence industry leaders, including Kevin Craven of the Defence Manufacturers Association, expressed alarm, calling the situation a 'damning reflection' on national security priorities. Healey, who has served as a defence minister or shadow minister since Tony Blair’s leadership, said Starmer had acknowledged the threats but failed to provide the necessary financial backing. The resignation marks a significant blow to the government’s defence strategy, with unions and firms warning delays could endanger jobs and security.