The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Andrew Marr: "National service, watch this space"
Feb 27, 2025
Will Dunn, Business editor for The New Statesman, dissects Keir Starmer's ambitious pledge to raise defense spending, revealing the tangled math behind these budget promises. Phil Whittaker, GP and health writer, reflects on the upheaval in NHS leadership, particularly following Amanda Pritchard’s resignation. They delve into the urgent reforms needed in the healthcare system, while exploring how increased defense budgets could clash with domestic needs. This lively discussion unpacks the critical interplay between national security and public health.
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UK Defense Underfunding
- The UK military is severely underfunded and unprepared for modern warfare.
- This leaves the country vulnerable and unable to fulfill its international role.
Defense Spending Calculations
- Labour's commitment to increased defense spending involves complex calculations and potential budget trickery.
- The actual increase is closer to £6 billion, funded by aid cuts, despite claims of a £13.4 billion rise.
Shifting Labour Image
- Keir Starmer's decision to cut overseas aid marks a significant shift in Labour's image.
- This move distances him from traditional supporters and aligns him with a more fiscally conservative approach.