Key facts
- John Healey has resigned as Britain's Defence Secretary.
- Healey cited a disagreement with Prime Minister Starmer over defence spending.
- He stated the government has been unable to commit the resources needed for defence.
- Healey argued for defence spending to reach 3% of GDP by 2030.
- He warned that insufficient funding would reduce military readiness and increase national risk.
John Healey has resigned as Britain's Defence Secretary, citing a significant disagreement with Prime Minister Keir Starmer over defence spending. In a letter posted on X, Healey stated that Starmer and the Treasury have been unwilling to commit the resources necessary for the nation's defence at a time of increasing global threats.
Healey argued that the financial settlement offered falls "well short of what is required," with defence spending projected to rise only to 2.68 percent of GDP by 2030, while he believes a firm 3 percent target is essential. He warned that without adequate funding, he would be forced to make decisions that reduce the readiness of the armed forces and increase risks to personnel, potentially making the country less safe.
This resignation is described as "another blow" for Prime Minister Starmer, occurring amidst a period of political pressure and multiple ministerial departures. Healey is the sixth minister to resign in the past month, following Health Secretary Wes Streeting's departure on May 14, who also cited concerns about Starmer's leadership. The delay in the Defence Investment Plan has also frustrated the UK's defence industry.
Al Jazeera's Camille Nedelec noted that Healey is a respected politician with significant clout, and his resignation opens a new line of criticism against Starmer, beyond the ongoing scandal involving Peter Mandelson. There is speculation that Healey might be preparing for a leadership bid.