Key facts
- John Healey resigned as defence secretary.
John Healey resigned as defence secretary, citing Keir Starmer's unwillingness to overrule the Treasury and increase defence spending. Healey had advocated for a rapid increase in defence expenditure, pushing for at least 3% of GDP by 2030.
John Healey's resignation as defence secretary highlights internal political tensions regarding defence spending priorities and the Treasury's influence, potentially impacting the UK's national security strategy and future government stability.
John Healey has resigned as defence secretary, citing a fundamental disagreement with the Treasury over the pace of defence spending increases. Healey, who has held the defence brief for six years, expressed his frustration in a letter posted on social media, stating that the government's current plans would make the UK less safe.
Healey had been a vocal advocate for increasing defence spending, pushing for at least 3% of GDP by 2030, and was reportedly unwilling to plan for the UK's defence with less. His tenure also saw a significant push on improving forces housing, leading to a £9bn plan and the passage of the Armed Forces Act. Allies of Healey describe him as a political operator with nearly 30 years in parliament, suggesting his move, while dramatic, was not entirely unexpected.
Despite his commitment to the defence brief, Healey's allies indicate that he does not aspire to a role in Downing Street. He is expected to return to public life in a senior capacity.
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