Hopes have been raised that the United Kingdom's new Chancellor, John Healey, will advocate for increased defense spending. Healey, who previously resigned as Defence Secretary citing insufficient funds for the Armed Forces, was appointed to lead the Treasury by Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Monday.
During his initial conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, Burnham indicated that defense and security are high priorities for his administration. However, despite a multi-billion pound deficit within the Ministry of Defence and warnings from service chiefs about potential operational cancellations, Burnham's first speech as Prime Minister did not outline new financial commitments to defense.
Healey's selection has, however, fueled optimism that the UK will establish a timeline for achieving NATO's defense spending target of 3.5 percent of GDP. When questioned about potential welfare cuts or new taxes to meet this goal, Healey stated, "Fiscal control is the first duty of any chancellor. It is mine. And fiscal credibility is the bedrock for economic stability and for national security... We will meet our commitments on defense to our international allies."
Under the current plans, developed by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the UK is spending 2.6 percent of GDP on defense, with no substantial increases anticipated before 2030. This approach, criticized for its "backloading" of spending, comes amid an increased operational tempo by Russia against NATO and a significant rise in aviation fuel costs, impacting the Royal Air Force.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch expressed support for Healey's appointment, tweeting that he can now ensure the Defense Investment Plan receives adequate funding and that Conservatives would support defense funding by reducing benefits, ruling out higher taxes or increased borrowing. A defense industry source described Healey's appointment as "very, very, very good news," anticipating a more receptive ear for military spending requests now that he holds the Treasury portfolio.
Former head of the Royal Navy, Lord West, emphasized the urgency of addressing defense spending, calling it the first priority for the Burnham government. Former Army commander Hamish de Bretton-Gordon warned against delaying defense investments, citing the current threat posed by Russia and the potential repercussions from allies, particularly the United States. He also highlighted a £13 billion deficit in the defense budget that needs to be filled to meet international commitments.
U.S. Ambassador Warren Stephens urged Burnham to move beyond rhetoric and commit financial resources, stating, "The United States is proud to stand alongside Britain, but we must not allow our efforts to be held up by backloaded investments or other spending priorities." He added, "We must move beyond the rhetoric of partnership and make the sustained investments that transform alliances from agreements on paper into the living architecture of a free and secure world."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Burnham, affirming readiness to collaborate and appreciating the UK's support. Burnham pledged continued and resolute support for Ukraine.
The defense think-tank Rusi noted the challenging international context, with research director Rosalind Roberts suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be seeking escalation. She stated that a UK prime minister would play a crucial role in coordinating support for Ukraine from the UK, Europe, and the U.S.