Former Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin has advised that any leader aspiring to become prime minister must pass a "Moscow test" in addition to any domestic policy assessments, emphasizing the need for a strong stance on national security.
Radakin, speaking on the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, suggested that the United Kingdom's next leader would need to govern "almost like a wartime prime minister" given the current global threat landscape. He outlined the "Moscow test" as an evaluation of the UK's standing within NATO, its capability as a nuclear power, and its relationship as an ally to the United States.
"Do we look like a strong member of the Nato alliance? Do we look like a strong nuclear power? Do we look like a strong ally of America? Because those are the elements that keep us safe," Radakin stated. He stressed that a failure to meet these benchmarks could jeopardize the UK's safety and strain relationships with key international partners.
His comments coincide with the government's impending release of its defense spending plan, the Defence Investment Plan (DIP). The plan is expected before the NATO summit in Turkey on July 7. Negotiations have been ongoing regarding the funding of the DIP. The UK has pledged, alongside most NATO allies, to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035.
However, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of the proposed investment. Defence Secretary John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns resigned earlier this month, citing insufficient funding in the draft DIP, which they claimed could lead to operational cutbacks. Reports indicate the Ministry of Defence requested an additional £28 billion by the end of the decade but was offered only £10 billion, with other government departments being asked to make budget cuts to accommodate the increase.
Radakin emphasized the necessity of bolstering the UK's armed forces, stating that current military capabilities are "too bare." He highlighted the need for increased funding for day-to-day operations, including maintenance, procurement of supplies, and ensuring the readiness of ships, aircraft, and armored vehicles.
Dan Jarvis, Healey's successor, expressed confidence that national security would remain a top priority for any Labour prime minister and that fundamental policies would remain consistent, regardless of leadership changes. Jarvis also reiterated the government's commitment to publishing the DIP before the July NATO summit.