PM to push ahead with controversial defence plan despite resignation

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   Starmer Unveils Defence Investment Plan Despite Internal Friction

   Prime Minister Keir Starmer has released a defence investment plan focused on equipping the UK armed forces. The strategy prioritizes defence spending in the next review, though it requires budget cuts to other sectors. Andy Burnham and his team have urged a delay in these commitments.

   What's confirmed:

   • The defence investment plan will be released before the NATO summit in Ankara.
   • Keir Starmer stated that increasing defence investment is the "number one priority" for the next spending review.
   • The plan involves a 15bn pound increase for defence funded by cuts to energy, housing, and road schemes.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Sir Keir Starmer will commit an additional 1bn pound to the defence budget over the next four years.
   • The military and allies are dissatisfied with the details of the investment plan.
   • Students at NMITE in Hereford believe the armed forces have been underfunded.
   confidence 90%
2. 5d ago

   Starmer to publish defence plan before NATO summit despite resignation

   Prime Minister Keir Starmer intends to release his ten-year Defence Investment Plan before the NATO summit on 7 July. This move has caused a rift within the Labour party, specifically with Andy Burnham. The plan remains controversial due to proposed cuts in defence capability.

   What's confirmed:

   • The government plans to publish spending proposals before the NATO summit on 7 July.
   • Keir Starmer is the outgoing Prime Minister.
   • The Defence Investment Plan is a ten-year blueprint.
   • Starmer and Andy Burnham are in a dispute over the defence funding plan.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • The Defence Investment Plan fails to meet the needs of the armed forces.
   • Andy Burnham is preparing to run for Labour leader.
   confidence 90%