Starmer defends not putting date on 3% defence spending target as UK to announce plans to build new submarines – politics live
The GuardianMonday, June 2, 2025 at 7:44:21 AM
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing questions about Labour's defence spending plans as the government prepares to announce new submarine construction. While dodging a firm timeline for hitting the 3% GDP defence target, Starmer emphasized Labour's commitment to reducing child poverty—a signature achievement of previous Labour governments. The strategic defence review launch in Glasgow hints at upcoming military investments, even as Starmer carefully navigates welfare policy questions about child benefits and pensioner eligibility.
Editor’s Note: Defence spending is always a political tightrope—balancing fiscal responsibility with national security—but Starmer's vague timeline and focus on social welfare suggests Labour's trying to reassure both hawks and progressives. The submarine plans signal continuity on nuclear deterrence, while the child poverty rhetoric aims to rebuild Labour's traditional brand. Essentially, it's a preview of how this government will try to have it both ways.
— Curated via WP Now’s
