Former Nato chief to say UK’s national security ‘in peril’
Former Nato Chief to Say UK’s National Security ‘in Peril’
A senior government advisor is set to criticize the current leadership for failing to prioritize defense adequately, labeling their approach as “corrosive complacency.” Lord George Robertson, the former NATO secretary general and author of the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), will deliver a speech later this week, accusing “non-military experts in the Treasury” of undermining the nation’s security through “vandalism.”
Delays in Defence Investment Plan
Despite the government’s commitment to a 10-year defense funding plan, the timeline for its release has faced consistent delays. Officials have emphasized that the SDR is supported by a significant increase in defense spending, exceeding £270 billion over the current parliamentary term. However, Lord Robertson argues that this financial commitment is insufficient to address the growing threats.
“We cannot defend Britain with an ever-expanding welfare budget,” the former Labour defence secretary will warn in Salisbury. “We are underprepared. We are underinsured. We are under attack. We are not safe… Britain’s national security and safety is in peril.”
Political Leadership and Risk Assessment
Lord Robertson will accuse political leaders of neglecting critical security risks, stating that even a promised dialogue on defense has yet to materialize. He highlights the “bright red signals of danger” being ignored, despite the urgency of modern threats. The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, previously claimed the investment plan was “finalised” and on his desk, but progress remains stalled.
Global Context and Military Readiness
Amid heightened global tensions—fueled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the re-election of US President Donald Trump—NATO members are being urged to increase defense spending. The head of the British military recently dismissed claims that the UK was unready for the Middle East conflict, which erupted on 28 February with a US-Israeli strike on Iran. Sir Richard Knighton called it “probably the most dangerous time of the last 30 years.”
Meanwhile, questions have been raised about the UK’s preparedness in specific incidents, such as the drone attack on RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. A defense official noted the government’s goal to allocate 3% of GDP to defense by the end of the next parliament, but Robertson remains skeptical about its effectiveness. The government spokesperson reiterated that the SDR is being fulfilled to tackle existing threats, though critics argue more action is needed.