The UK already has one of the largest defence budgets in NATO. Regardless, the Government recognises that the global security context has continued to deteriorate, with growing links between states that pose the greatest challenge to our interests.
This is why the Prime Minister has pledged that the UK will spend 2.5% of GDP on defence. Starting immediately, the UK will steadily increase investment in defence, reaching 2.5% of GDP in 2030/31. In cash terms, that means the UK will spend £87 billion on defence in 2030-31, a £23 billion increase on what will be spent in 2024/25, with a cumulative additional spend of £75 billion over the next six years. This additional expenditure will secure the UK’s position as the second largest spender in NATO and will make the UK the largest cash spender in the G7, other than the US.
In Cornwall we have a proud tradition of service, with historic air and naval bases like Falmouth, and Cornish servicemen and servicewomen deployed around the world. This news matters to many of us, and I want to hear what it means to you.
If you have a few spare moments, please complete my survey, and let me know what your thoughts are on the Government’s increased defence spending.