Kemi Badenoch, the Leader of the Opposition, has called for the UK to commit to spending 3% of its GDP on defence by 2030. Speaking at Scotland House London, Ms Badenoch stated that a delay beyond this target would be detrimental.
The current government position, following some confusion at Wednesday's Prime Minister's Questions, is a target of 3.5% of GDP for defence spending by 2035. This contrasts with Ms Badenoch's proposed 2030 deadline.
Andrew Griffith, the new Shadow Chancellor, introduced Ms Badenoch at the event. Ms Badenoch suggested that increased defence spending would deter hostile countries.
Regarding funding, Ms Badenoch indicated that the additional money for defence would be found by cutting the welfare bill. She also mentioned saving money from a Chagos deal that has not yet been agreed or spent.