UK defence minister John Healey resigns over military spending dispute

British Defence Minister John Healey resigned on Thursday following a prolonged dispute with Prime Minister Keir Starmer over military funding. In a formal letter, Healey criticized the Prime Minister and the Treasury for failing to allocate sufficient resources to address national security threats. The resignation highlights ongoing tension between the Ministry of Defence and the finance ministry, which has delayed the publication of the Defence Investment Plan for over a year. Military leaders have urged the government to increase spending to counter rising geopolitical threats, including frequent Russian incursions. Meanwhile, the British defence industry has expressed frustration, citing the inability to make long-term investments due to this policy gridlock. This resignation adds to political instability within Starmer’s government, which is already managing high national debt and tax levels. Analysts note the administration faces mounting pressure following other recent high-profile departures, including former health minister Wes Streeting.