Decline in Defence Spending
UK defence spending has seen a significant drop since the Tories came into power in 2010, with the percentage of wealth allocated to armed forces falling from 2.47% to 2.28%.
Minister Forced to Admit Decline
The decline in spending was brought to light by Defence minister the Earl of Minto during questioning by peers, revealing a low of 2.03% in 2015.
Pressure for Increase
MPs are pushing for an increase in defence spending to 3% due to mounting threats from global powers like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
PM's Response
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has stated that defence spending will rise to 2.5% when the economy allows, with current spending set at £51.7 billion for the year.
Call for Immediate Rise
Former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, ex-Armed Forces minister James Heappey, and other officials are advocating for an immediate boost in military spending.
Pressure on PM
Pressure is mounting on PM Sunak to increase defence spending ahead of the upcoming election, despite current plans for a modest uplift to mark Nato's 75th anniversary.
RAF Jets Redeployed
Questions about military preparedness arise as RAF jets are diverted from protecting Nato against Russia to support efforts in defending Israel, raising concerns about resource allocation.
