Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative leader, delivered a speech on defense spending at London Scottish House, a venue adorned with war memorials and martial imagery. Badenoch presented the prospect of conflict with Russia as an inevitability, stating that the situation is 'real and it is happening now,' though currently in a 'hybrid' form.
She asserted that national security requires significant investment and that the current approach of capping bus fares is insufficient for defense. "We cannot defend ourselves by capping bus fares," Badenoch stated, adding that "If you want peace, you prepare for war."
To fund an increase in defense spending to 3 percent of GDP, the Conservatives plan to reduce welfare benefits, specifically mentioning housing benefits and the Motability cars scheme, which she claimed has been subject to abuse. Badenoch cited examples of individuals allegedly claiming free cars for minor ailments like tennis elbow.
Proceedings were opened by Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith, who spoke about his early enlistment in party ranks. Badenoch contrasted the UK's defense efforts with those of allies such as Poland, which is expanding its army, and Germany, which aims for 3.5 percent defense spending by 2035. She also pointed to Greece's ability to respond swiftly during a recent Middle East crisis.
The minister's remarks were delivered in a measured tone, which the reporting characterized as a "snooker commentator voice." She dismissed the idea that increased mayors would safeguard the country and implied that potential adversaries, like Russian President Vladimir Putin, would not delay action based on the spending plans of opposition parties.
During a question-and-answer session, Badenoch directly addressed queries about past defense spending and welfare cuts, asserting her current leadership and the party's past actions.
