New UK Defence Secretary pledges “fullest support” to armed forces
Following a Labour Government victory in the 2024 UK General Election, the new Defence Secretary has pledged his “fullest support” to the armed forces, despite acknowledging “serious problems” with the way the services have been “hollowed out and under funded for 14 years”.
The UK government is now also “totally committed to 2.5% of defence spending, to NATO, to the nuclear deterrent and to support for Ukraine;” an increase on the commitment of 2% of GDP the government had previously committed to, as the House of Commons Library explained, “defence expenditure that meets NATO’s definition”.
Speaking in an address to members of the armed forces and civilian staff at the Ministry of Defence (following his appointment on 5 July), the Rt Hon John Healey MP explained: “The work you do is vital and we are proud of the professionalism and your dedication to serving this nation, both in uniform and out”.
However, he cautioned of “serious times” ahead; acknowledging the war in Europe, conflict in the Middle East and growing Russian aggression as “increasing global threats”; compounded by what he believes to be 14 years of underfunding by the outgoing Conservative government.
“Out mission is to make Britain secure at home and strong abroad, with the guiding principle of one Defence,” Healy continued. “Because it isn’t just those who serve in uniform who defend this country, it’s those of you who serve in the Civil Service, who work on the production line, who staff the research labs, who develop software”.
His plan, ultimately, involves “an Armed Forces well-equipped and ready to fight, a skilled, scalable industrial base, a stronger relationship with allies, a more influential MoD, a public that understands and better supports, those who are willing to serve”.
