Britain's Defence Secretary, John Healey, has resigned in protest over the government's plans to cut defence spending, citing the 'hollowing out' of the country's armed forces.
In a scathing resignation letter, Healey accused the Treasury of being 'unwilling' to commit the necessary resources to defend the country, and warned that the proposed defence investment plan (DIP) would reduce the readiness of forces and increase the risk to personnel.
The DIP, which has been delayed for months, is expected to provide a £13.5bn settlement over four years, a figure that Healey claims is 'well short' of what is required.
The government's pledge to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2030 and 3.5% by 2035 looks increasingly threadbare, with other NATO allies moving faster towards the target.
The resignation is a blow to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who is already facing criticism over his handling of the economy and his leadership.
Healey's decision to quit may yet produce positive change, with defence experts describing it as a 'seismic moment' for the government and the Ministry of Defence.
