Shapps calls on allies to raise defence spending

BRITAIN'S allies must boost their armies in the face of the most dangerous threat to peace in decades, the Defence Secretary has urged.

- Sam Lister and Steph Spyro

Grant Shapps called on Western nations to follow the UK's lead by spending billions more to make sure they are ready for war.

He called for Nato members to match a new pledge to invest at least 2.5% of national income on the military and kit it needs to fight.

Mr Shapps told the Daily Express: "There can be no doubt that threats to the UK and our interests are increasing. That's why the Prime Minister and I are increasing Britain's defence spending to 2.5% by 2030.

Brave

"This is the right thing to do and confirms our place as the biggest defence power in Europe.