Prime Minister launches UK defence review to bolster Britain’s 'hollowed-out armed forces'

Sir Keir Starmer has launched a review of the UK’s defence to protect the country from a “more dangerous and volatile world”.

The prime minister said spending would be “responsibly increased” to bolster Britain’s “hollowed-out armed forces”.

It comes after Sir Keir reaffirmed his commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP (gross domestic product) at the Nato summit in Washington last week.

According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the review will aim to strengthen UK homeland security, bolster Ukraine in its fight against Russia, and modernise and maintain the nuclear deterrent.

It will be led by former Nato secretary general Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, and draw on military and foreign policy experts such as Dr Fiona Hill and General Sir Richard Barrons.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Lord Robertson warned of a “deadly quartet” as he referred to threats from China, Iran, Russia and North Korea.

A defence review team will also be established to engage with serving and retired members of the armed forces, the defence industry, the general public, academics, Parliament and the UK’s allies.

Sir Keir said: “We live in a more dangerous and volatile world. My Government will forge a new clear-eyed approach to our national defences, equipping us to tackle international threats head on while keeping the British people safe and secure.

“I promised the British people I would deliver the change needed to take our country forward, and I promised action not words. That’s why one of my first acts since taking office is to launch our strategic defence review.

“We will make sure our hollowed-out armed forces are bolstered and respected, that defence spending is responsibly increased, and that our country has the capabilities needed to ensure the UK’s resilience for the long term.”

Defence Secretary John Healey will oversee the review and he will be regularly updated on progress, in addition to the prime minister and the chancellor.

Mr Healey said: “At the start of a new era for Britain, we need a new era for defence. Hollowed-out armed forces, procurement waste and neglected morale cannot continue. Meanwhile, we need to be clear-eyed about the threats we face, with the world becoming more volatile and technology changing the nature of warfare.

“In response, our armed forces need to be better ready to fight, more integrated and more innovative. We need clearer accountability, faster delivery, less waste and better value for money.

“The review will ensure that defence is central to the future security of Britain and to its economic growth and prosperity."

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