British Defense Secretary John Healey resigned Thursday, saying Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government is not willing to spend enough on the military.
In his resignation letter, Healey told Starmer that the government's defense investment plan falls "well short of what is required at this dangerous time." He wrote: "You have been unable, and the Treasury has been unwilling, to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats." He concluded: "I am now left with no other option to submit my resignation as your Defence Secretary."
The resignation came as publication of the government's defense plan had already been delayed, with reports of disagreement between the defense ministry and the Treasury, according to ABC News.
Healey has served as UK defense chief since the Labour Party took power in July 2024. He is regarded as a capable and serious minister. Starmer has pledged to boost UK defense spending to 2.5% of gross domestic product by 2027 and 3% by 2034, but many in the military have said that pace is not fast enough.
The departure is another blow to Starmer, who is already facing pressure from Labour colleagues calling on him to step down.
