Former Armed Forces Minister Al Carns has launched a scathing critique of the government's defence strategy, accusing ministers of both underfunding the military and allocating resources to obsolete weapons systems. Mr. Carns' resignation on Thursday evening came just hours after his superior, John Healey, the Defence Secretary, also stepped down, both departures reportedly stemming from a protracted disagreement over the Defence Investment Plan (DIP).
Speaking on Friday, Mr. Carns articulated his reasons for leaving, stating that the DIP lacked sufficient financial backing. Furthermore, he expressed strong disagreement with the government's intention to invest in what he described as 'outdated systems'. He told the BBC's Today programme, "I didn’t think the funding settlement was correct for defence, and I didn’t agree with the defence investment plan, which I thought was looking at how to fight the last war rather than the next one." He also suggested a potential bid for leadership should a contest emerge in the coming weeks, responding to an LBC query about standing for leader with, "I’m always up for playing."
Mr. Carns elaborated on his concerns regarding current defence capabilities, advocating for a shift away from 'old legacy capabilities' – some of which, he noted, were ordered by previous Conservative governments many years ago. He urged for "difficult, courageous decisions... to get rid and replace them with some of the innovative technologies we’re seeing in Ukraine." This sentiment aligns with Mr. Healey's earlier resignation letter, where he stated, "You have been unable and the Treasury has been unwilling to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats."
The resignations highlight a deep division within the government concerning defence spending. Reports indicate that the Ministry of Defence had sought £18 billion over four years for the DIP, while the Treasury was only prepared to commit £13.5 billion, with £10 billion of that being new money. This fiscal disagreement underscores the challenge of balancing national security needs with broader economic priorities.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle defended the Prime Minister's position, emphasising the need to prioritise economic growth alongside military investment. Speaking to Sky News, Mr. Kyle warned against an 'irresponsible' approach to the DIP, suggesting it could negatively impact economic growth and become a 'zero-sum game'. He affirmed that the plan would be published before next month's NATO summit, despite the recent ministerial departures.
The twin resignations pose a significant challenge to the Prime Minister, particularly as he prepares for a potential leadership challenge should Andy Burnham secure a victory in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. Mr. Carns, while praising the Prime Minister as a 'good man', painted a picture of a leader struggling to resolve internal government disputes, stating, "we are fighting amongst each other to get more money for the key unifying principle of the of any government, which is to protect this nation."
Source: BBC, LBC, Sky News