Former Nato chief to say UK’s national security ‘in peril’

Former NATO Chief Warns UK National Security at Risk

Lord George Robertson, a former NATO secretary general and architect of the government’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR), is set to launch a sharp critique of the UK’s defence strategy during a speech in Salisbury. He will highlight a growing sense of political inertia, accusing officials of failing to adequately address emerging threats to the nation’s safety.

The Strategic Defence Review, which outlines the country’s long-term security goals, has been central to discussions about military preparedness. Despite promises to release a 10-year funding plan, the timeline has been stretched, with delays drawing criticism from Robertson. He will argue that the current approach risks leaving Britain vulnerable, emphasizing that the welfare budget is not a viable substitute for robust defence spending.

“We cannot defend Britain with an ever-expanding welfare budget,” Robertson will state. “We are underprepared. We are underinsured. We are under attack. We are not safe… Britain’s national security and safety is in peril.”

Government officials have defended the SDR, citing a significant increase in defence spending—over £270 billion since the Cold War—as evidence of commitment. A spokesperson reiterated that the plan remains on track to counter present and future challenges. However, Robertson’s intervention adds urgency, stressing the need for a unified political effort to prioritize military readiness.

Recent geopolitical developments, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the re-election of Donald Trump, have intensified calls for greater defence investment. NATO members are being urged to raise spending to meet evolving threats, a goal the UK has pledged to achieve by allocating 3% of GDP to defence by the end of the next parliament.

Despite these pledges, some concerns persist. The chief of the Defence Staff, Sir Richard Knighton, recently dismissed claims that the UK was unready for the Middle East conflict, which erupted on 28 February following a joint US-Israeli strike on Iran. He called the period “probably the most dangerous time of the last 30 years.”

Meanwhile, questions have been raised about the UK’s response to specific incidents, such as the drone attack targeting RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. A Royal Navy vessel was deployed to the region to safeguard the base, drawing scrutiny over the government’s preparedness and coordination. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had previously claimed the defence investment plan was “finalised” and on his desk, but Robertson’s remarks suggest lingering doubts about its effectiveness.