Nuclear Deterrent Vital To UK Defence, Says Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer has said the UK's nuclear deterrent is the "bedrock" of his plan to keep Britain safe. If elected, the Labour leader said he will use defence procurement to strengthen UK security and economic growth.

- RHIANNON JAMES

The party hopes to direct British defence investment to British business first, with a higher bar set for any decisions to buy abroad. In an interview with the i newspaper, Sir Keir confirmed his ambition was to boost the defence budget to 2.5 per cent of GDP, if it fits with Labour’s fiscal rules.

During a visit to Barrow today, where nuclear submarines are being built, Sir Keir is expected to focus on increasing jobs and skills in defence.

Alongside shadow defence minister John Healey and Australian high commissioner to the UK Stephen Smith, Sir Keir will speak to workers, union members and apprentices at the Barrow shipyard. He is also expected use the visit to affirm Labour’s commitment to the Aukus security pact.

Sir Keir said: “The changed Labour Party I lead knows that our nation’s defence must always come first. Labour’s commitment to our nuclear deterrent is total.

“In the face of rising global threats and growing Russian aggression, the UK’s nuclear deterrent is the bedrock of Labour’s plan to keep Britain safe. It will ensure vital protection for the UK and our Nato allies in the years ahead, as well as supporting thousands of high-paying jobs across the UK.