In a dramatic move, UK Defence Secretary John Healey has resigned from Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government, citing a Defence Investment Plan that "falls well short of what is required."
In his resignation letter, Healey expressed pride in the Labour government's achievements over the past two years, including raising defence investment to 2.5% of GDP, launching a Strategic Defence Review, and leading international support for Ukraine. However, he argued that the rising threats—from Russian aggression to conflicts in the Middle East and the High North—demand more immediate and substantial funding.
Healey stated that the Treasury's proposed settlement, which would only reach 2.68% of GDP by 2030, is insufficient. He warned that without a credible plan to reach 3% by 2030, he would be forced to make decisions that reduce military readiness and increase risk to personnel.
"You know what defence needs," Healey wrote, referencing Starmer's own Munich Security Conference speech. "Without a DIP that meets the moment... I am now left with no other option than to submit my resignation."
Healey's departure highlights growing pressure on the government to boost defence spending amid heightened global tensions, including NATO's assessment of a potential Russian attack by 2030.