In his resignation letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer today, UK Defense Minister John Healey asserted that the government has failed to allocate adequate military funding amidst escalating threats. The letter stated, "You cannot and the Treasury is unwilling to commit the resources the country needs to defend itself".

The unexpected resignation, accompanied by a public letter containing sharp criticism, intensifies pressure on Prime Minister Starmer, who faces a potential leadership challenge. It also exposes an internal government crisis regarding how to significantly increase defense spending amidst tight budgetary constraints.

Minister John Healey leaves the UK Prime Minister's Office after a cabinet meeting on 2/6. Photo: Reuters

For months, the UK Ministry of Defense and the Treasury have been at odds over how to meet rising military expenditure needs. This dispute led to the delay of the UK Defense Investment Plan last year.

The long-awaited plan is intended to outline defense spending for the next decade. However, reports suggest the actual budget will be significantly lower than initial proposals.

The delay has caused considerable dissatisfaction within the UK defense industry. Companies argue they cannot invest in long-term national security programs amidst a volatile global geopolitical landscape and the United States' diminishing role in ensuring European security.

Healey, 66, is a Labour Party politician who became UK Defense Minister in 7/2024. He is widely regarded as belonging to the moderate wing of the Labour Party, having previously overseen economic and housing portfolios for many years before transitioning to defense.

Huyen Le (According to Reuters, AFP)