Former Nato chief to say UK’s national security ‘in peril’

Former Nato Chief to Say UK’s National Security ‘in Peril’

Lord George Robertson, the former NATO secretary general and author of the UK’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR), is set to criticize current leaders for a lack of urgency in addressing defense matters. In a speech later this week, he will highlight what he calls “persistent neglect” in military preparedness and claim the nation’s safety is at risk.

“We cannot defend Britain with an ever-expanding welfare budget.”

The SDR, which outlines a 10-year defense investment plan, has faced repeated delays in implementation. Despite these setbacks, the government maintains that the strategy is supported by significant increases in spending, totaling more than £270 billion across this parliamentary term.

Robertson will also accuse non-military experts within the Treasury of undermining efforts to secure the country’s future. He argues that political leaders are offering only superficial attention to growing threats, failing to initiate meaningful discussions about national defense.

Amid rising global tensions, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the re-election of US President Donald Trump, NATO nations have been urged to enhance their military budgets. The UK’s target to allocate 3% of GDP to defense by the end of the next parliament remains a key focus for officials.

Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton recently told the BBC that the Middle East conflict, which began on 28 February, represents “probably the most dangerous time of the last 30 years.” Some have questioned the UK’s response, particularly regarding the deployment of a Royal Navy vessel to Cyprus to safeguard the RAF Akrotiri base from drone attacks.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had previously stated the defense plan was “finalised” and on his desk, but Robertson’s remarks suggest lingering concerns about the government’s commitment to long-term security goals.