Defence Secretary John Healey Pledges Military Spending Plan Publication Before July Nato Summit
Defence Secretary John Healey has confirmed that the Prime Minister is “determined” to publish the 10-year Defence Investment Plan (DIP) before the Nato summit convenes on 7 July. This announcement in the Commons follows widespread criticism from industry bodies and trade unions concerning repeated delays to the plan, initially anticipated in autumn 2025.
The DIP is intended to detail the funding mechanisms for new military equipment and defence infrastructure over the next decade, building upon the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) issued on 2 June 2025. However, the prolonged delay has generated considerable apprehension within the sector.
Industry and Union Concerns
Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, highlighted that defence workers and civil servants “are crying out for certainty,” while ADS, the UK's aerospace, defence, security, and space industries trade association, noted that some small and medium enterprises are “really struggling.” Kevin Craven, Chief Executive of ADS, described the 12-month gap between the SDR and DIP as “pretty abysmal,” suggesting the nation is not adequately prepared for potential future military threats.
Sharon Graham, Unite General Secretary, asserted that the government’s failure to produce the DIP threatens British jobs, skills, and national security. She insisted that all future defence spending, particularly on projects like new Typhoon fast jets, the Skynet satellite, and the A400M transport plane, must be directed within the UK to prevent “a betrayal.”
Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge questioned whether the Treasury had approved the plan, implying the government had not yet secured its funding. Liberal Democrat MP Edward Morello echoed industry frustrations, warning that firms in his constituency might relocate their headquarters to Europe or the US if delays persist, risking jobs and sovereign capabilities.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard defended the government's record, stating that 1,200 major defence deals have been signed since July 2024, indicating progress despite the DIP’s absence.
Parliamentary Pressure
On Tuesday, the Conservatives intend to introduce an amendment to the Armed Forces Bill, seeking to legally mandate the government to present the DIP to Parliament within a month of the legislation's approval. While unlikely to pass given the government's majority, the debate aims to highlight ongoing frustrations among Labour MPs, some of whom, like Michelle Scrogham and Catherine McKinnell, have previously voiced concerns over the “real-world consequences” of these delays on supply chains and investment.
