As the general election approaches next month, Keir Starmer, leader of the U.K. Labour Party, has emphasized the need to strengthen the military’s stance on the use of nuclear weapons as part of his security agenda.
According to the BBC on the 3rd, when asked about his stance on nuclear weapons, Starmer emphasized, “We need to be prepared to use them.”
He insisted, “No one who aspires to be Prime Minister would irresponsibly set out the circumstances in which it (nuclear weapons) would be used. It is there as a part, a vital part, of our defense.”
He further emphasized, “This is a changed Labour party and the most important thing is I voted in favor of a nuclear deterrent. I lead from the front, I’ve always led from the front.“
His statement shows the intention of conveying to voters that he is different from established politicians who avoid the use of nuclear weapons to evade political criticism. At the same time, it can be seen as the Labour Party expressing its determination to face the security issues where it has shown relative weakness head-on.
Starmer stated that security would always be the top priority during his leadership of the Labour Party, pledging to increase defense spending and renew nuclear weapons if elected as Prime Minister. He reiterated his promise to increase U.K. defense spending to 2.5% of GDP.
The current Conservative government led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has mentioned that it will achieve the same figure by 2030 if re-elected.
He also stated that he would continue to build four new nuclear submarines, maintain naval deterrence, and renew technology to strengthen the reconnaissance capabilities of submarines. The UK is already investing 31 billion pounds ($39.7 billion) in building four new nuclear submarines.
U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps criticized the Labour Party, stating, “The Labour Party poses a danger to our national security. Uncertain times call for a clear plan and bold action to chart a course to a secure future. Only the Conservatives offer that.”
Previously, Sunak announced bringing back the conscription system for 18-year-olds to tackle security issues.