This boost to defence spending is vital for the UK’s national security

The Prime Minister has announced an increase in the UK’s defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a pledge to further increase to 3% during the next parliament.

The increase will be paid for by a cut in overseas aid. In a statement to MPs the Prime Minister also pledged to use defence spending to improve jobs and the economy.

Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, said:

“This boost to defence spending is vital for the UK’s national security. The war in Ukraine has shown that we cannot take peace for granted.

“As a leading military power, the UK should take a lead by investing in defence. This will boost jobs and deter aggressor nations which will help to secure economic growth.

“Now is the time to invest in people working in the defence sector. That means supporting UK defence contractors and ensuring that we have skilled personnel in the civil service able to provide the equipment our armed forces will need to do their job.”