Starmer Rejects Ironclad Commitment to 2.5% Defence Spending Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has declined to make an absolute pledge to maintain defense spending at 2.5% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during his first term in office. Responding to a question at a press conference, Starmer stated that while Labour “believes in a strong defense,” the party would need to “look at the economic situation” and “make decisions based on what is in the best interests of the country” when determining defense funding. The 2.5% target was set by NATO in 2014, and the UK has been a consistent adherent to the goal. However, the current economic turmoil and rising inflation have raised questions about the sustainability of such high levels of defense spending. Some within Labour have expressed support for Starmer’s position, arguing that the party should prioritize economic recovery and social welfare. Others have criticized the move, claiming that it sends the wrong message to allies and potential adversaries. The Conservative Party has seized upon Starmer’s remarks, accusing Labour of being “weak on defense.” Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the UK “needs to be prepared to invest in our armed forces and protect our national interests.” The debate over defense spending is likely to continue in the lead-up to the next general election. The outcome will have significant implications for the UK’s military capabilities and its role within NATO. Reactions * Conservative Party: “Labour is sending a dangerous message that it is not committed to the defense of our country.” * Liberal Democrats: “The UK needs a strong defense, but we must also be mindful of the economic challenges we face. Labour is right to prioritize economic recovery.” * Defence Analyst: “The declining commitment to 2.5% defense spending is a worrying trend. The UK needs to maintain its military strength to deter aggression and protect its interests.”Labour Leader Declines Commitment to Defense Spending LONDON – Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, has declined to guarantee that his party will meet the NATO target of spending 2.5% of GDP on defense in the party’s first term in office. “We have made it clear that we will prioritize investment in our public services and infrastructure,” Starmer said at a press conference. “We believe that this is essential for the security and prosperity of our country.” Critics have argued that Labour’s stance could weaken the United Kingdom’s role in NATO and its ability to deter potential aggressors. “NATO membership is an important part of our defense strategy, and we must continue to meet our commitments,” said former Defense Secretary Michael Fallon. The Conservative Party, the current ruling party, has pledged to meet the 2.5% target. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called Labour’s position “irresponsible” and a threat to national security. Labour has countered that the 2.5% target is arbitrary and that the party will invest in defense based on the needs of the country. “We will work with our allies to ensure that our defenses are strong and that we are prepared for the threats of the future,” Starmer said. The issue of defense spending is expected to be a key point of debate in the upcoming general election.