Former Nato chief to say UK’s national security ‘in peril’
Former Nato chief to say UK’s national security ‘in peril’
Lord George Robertson, the former NATO secretary general and architect of the government’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR), is set to deliver a sharp critique of current UK leadership during a speech in Salisbury. He will accuse senior officials of fostering “corrosive complacency” in defence matters and argue that the nation’s safety is at risk. The SDR, which outlines a vision for the country’s military strategy, has seen its funding plan delayed multiple times despite government promises to release it by the end of the next parliamentary term.
Political Leadership Under Fire
In a direct challenge to policy decisions, Robertson will claim that non-military experts within the Treasury have undermined defence priorities through “vandalism.” He will assert:
“We cannot defend Britain with an ever-expanding welfare budget.”
The speech will emphasize that the UK is “underprepared,” “underinsured,” and “under attack,” with its security “in peril.” He will also criticize the lack of meaningful dialogue around defence spending, stating that even a promised national conversation remains uninitiated.
Government Defends Spending Commitments
A spokesperson for the government defended the SDR, highlighting a “sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War” totaling over £270 billion. They reiterated that the plan aims to meet modern threats, including the ongoing Middle East conflict that erupted on 28 February. Despite some scrutiny over the UK’s readiness for this conflict, the head of the British military, Sir Richard Knighton, has dismissed claims of preparedness shortfalls, calling the period “probably the most dangerous time of the last 30 years.”
Global Pressures on Defence Investment
Recent events, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the re-election of US President Donald Trump, have intensified calls for NATO nations to raise defence spending. The UK, along with allies, faces growing pressure to allocate more resources to security. Robertson’s remarks align with this context, urging leaders to address the “bright red signals of danger” rather than offering superficial reassurances.
Controversies Over Strategic Actions
Questions have arisen about the UK’s response to regional threats, particularly the deployment of a Royal Navy vessel to Cyprus to safeguard the RAF Akrotiri base after it was targeted by a drone. Robertson’s speech will likely frame such incidents as evidence of a broader national security crisis, emphasizing the urgency of action over delayed plans and vague commitments.
