Former Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, discusses the impact of high-pressure government jobs on family relations and shares the behind-the-scenes story of the lead-up to the Ukraine War. He also talks about the "poison" in British politics and the need for increased defense spending.
Ben Wallace emphasizes the importance of enjoying opportunities and fulfilling one's role instead of constantly seeking higher positions in political life.
Ben Wallace highlights the need for increased defense spending and investment in defense capabilities to uphold security guarantees and maintain strong international alliances.
Deep dives
Lessons from Political Thinking
Ben Wallace reflects on his time as Defence Secretary and the challenges of political life. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the opportunities and fulfilling one's role, rather than constantly seeking higher positions. Wallace also discusses the need for resolve in international affairs, particularly in relation to Ukraine and Gaza. He highlights the importance of defense spending and the role it plays in deterring adversaries. Wallace concludes by reflecting on the toxic culture in politics and the need for change.
The Challenge of Defense Spending
Ben Wallace discusses the struggles he faced as Defense Secretary in securing sufficient funding for defense. He highlights the decline in defense spending over the past 35 years and emphasizes the need to invest in defense capabilities and maintain a strong defense offering. Wallace criticizes the use of defense funding as discretionary spend and highlights the importance of defense in upholding security guarantees and being part of international alliances.
Ukraine, Russia, and Western Resolve
Wallace reflects on his role during the Ukraine crisis and the challenge of predicting and responding to Russian aggression. He emphasizes the need for Western resolve and support for Ukraine, highlighting the significance of Ukraine as a test of the West's commitment to its values and alliance security. Wallace also discusses the potential implications for China's actions in the Pacific, stressing the importance of deterring adversaries and maintaining resolve in the face of geopolitical challenges.
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
Wallace provides advice to his younger self and to others in politics, highlighting the importance of enjoying the present and making a difference in people's lives. He emphasizes the need to prioritize fulfillment over pursuing higher positions and recognition. Wallace also reflects on the need to tackle the toxic culture in politics, including rumor, gossip, and smear tactics. He underlines the importance of defense spending, international resolve, and the pursuit of a two-state solution in resolving conflicts and maintaining global security.
The former Defence Secretary opens up about the impact of high-pressure government jobs on family relations and tells the behind-the-scenes story of the lead-up to the Ukraine War and his take on the “poison” in British politics.
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