PM to push ahead with controversial defence plan despite resignation

Key Points:

• The UK government plans to publish its long-awaited defence investment plan (DIP) ahead of the NATO summit on 7 July, despite Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's announced resignation and leadership transition.
• No new major policies or spending decisions will be made during the transition, but the government intends to proceed with the controversial defence spending proposals that have already led to the resignation of two defence ministers.
• The defence investment plan aims to increase spending effectively to meet current threats, with a target to raise defence spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035, although there are concerns about funding shortfalls and whether the next prime minister will revise the plan.
• New Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis emphasized the importance of finalizing the plan without compromising quality and confirmed ongoing discussions with the Chancellor to secure the best possible funding deal.
• NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has urged member countries to present credible defence spending plans at the summit, reflecting increased pressure on European allies following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and changing US defense commitments.