Key Points:
Sir Keir Starmer to announce plan to raise defence spending.
PM criticized for 'too little too late' approach.
Statement to be made in Commons at 12.30pm.
Sir Keir Starmer is set to unveil a strategy to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. This move has been met with criticism, with the Prime Minister being accused of acting "too little too late." The announcement will take place in the Commons at 12.30pm.Background:
Pressure from US President and NATO leaders to boost military funding.
Renewed urgency due to peace talks in Ukraine.
Disagreement over raising spending to 2.65% of GDP.
The decision to raise defence spending comes after mounting pressure from US President Donald Trump and NATO leaders for European countries to increase their military budgets. The urgency for this move has been further emphasized by ongoing peace talks in Ukraine. There is a disagreement, however, over whether spending should be raised to 2.65% of GDP.Reactions:
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch calls for a more comprehensive plan.
Focus on efficient military rearmament and improved procurement.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has stated that the 2.5% target is no longer adequate and has called for a more comprehensive plan. She emphasized the need for a military rearmament strategy that is efficient and focused, as well as an overhaul of military procurement to ensure better value for taxpayers.
