Concerns over Defence Cuts
Penny Mordaunt, a Cabinet Minister and Naval reservist, has publicly warned against cuts to the Royal Navy's fleet, stating that it is crucial for the Navy to keep pace with the growing capabilities of other nations in order to secure Britain's interests.
Defence Secretary Unable to Pledge Increased Spending
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was unable to provide a specific date for when Ministry of Defence (MoD) spending would increase to 2.5% of GDP. However, he assured that there is an upward trajectory and that the government is working to a plan.
UK Defence Budget Second Only to the United States
Shapps emphasized that the UK is comfortably above the 2% NATO target for defence spending and that its defence budget is second only to the United States within the military alliance.
Mordaunt's Remarks Rebuked by Shapps
When questioned about Penny Mordaunt's concerns, Grant Shapps stated that there are many people with opinions in his position and that it is common for those with military experience to express their views.
Former Chief of General Staff Criticizes Army Size
Last week, Lord Dannatt, the former chief of the general staff, criticized the shrinking size of the army, stating that it is "woeful" and has dropped from 102,000 in 2006 to 74,000 today.
UK Defence Spending Should Rise to 3% of GDP
Shapps previously argued that defence spending should increase to 3% of GDP, but the Shadow Home Secretary refused to say whether Labour would pledge to meet this target if they win the election.
Call for European Support for Ukraine
Shapps urged European countries to increase their support for Ukraine, particularly in the fight against Putin, following Britain's £2.5 billion cash package for the war effort.
