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UK delays setting date for 3% defence spending target until next year

Chancellor defers roadmap as former defence secretary Healey resigns over funding row

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By LineZotpaper
Published
Read Time1 min
Sources2 outlets
The Treasury has confirmed that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will postpone setting a timeline for the UK to meet the target of allocating 3% of GDP to defence until next year’s spending review, deferring a key milestone amid ongoing tensions over military funding.

The chancellor will delay setting out when the UK will meet the target of allocating 3% of GDP on defence until next year’s spending review, the Treasury has confirmed.

John Healey resigned as defence secretary in June under Keir Starmer’s leadership, accusing the prime minister of being “unable” and the Treasury “unwilling” to “commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country”.

The decision to defer the roadmap comes after months of political pressure over defence spending, with the government facing criticism from within its own ranks and from NATO allies about the pace of increased military investment.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • The delay leaves the UK without a clear timeline for reaching the 3% target, potentially affecting NATO commitments and defence planning.
  • The decision fuels political tensions within the Labour government, following Healey's resignation over precisely this issue.
  • Defence contractors and military planners face continued uncertainty about future funding levels.

Background

The UK has long aimed to increase defence spending in response to heightened global security threats, with a previous target of 2% of GDP met through NATO commitments. Calls for a 3% target have grown louder, but the Treasury has resisted committing to a specific date due to fiscal constraints and competing spending priorities.

Key Perspectives

Former Defence Secretary John Healey: Argues the government is failing to commit necessary resources, leading him to resign in protest. Treasury officials: Maintain that a responsible fiscal approach requires deferring the date until the next spending review can assess overall priorities. Critics/Skeptics: Question whether the delay is a genuine fiscal necessity or a political manoeuvre to avoid internal conflict, and worry it signals a lack of urgency in addressing defence needs.

What to Watch

  • Next year's spending review outcome and whether a concrete date for 3% is included.
  • Any further ministerial resignations or public dissent within the Labour party over defence funding.
  • NATO summit statements or responses from allies regarding UK defence commitment timelines.

Sources

newspaper

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