Defence Spending 2.5% GDP

"I am proud to speak in support of the Armed Forces Bill on Second Reading, and I do so as the Member of Parliament for Aldershot, the home of the British Army. In my constituency, service is not an abstract concept. It i…" Hansard

"In January, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists —" Hansard

"Local connection tests officially removed for care leavers under 25 and victims of domestic abuse Forms part of the five-step plan to deliver a decade of renewal for social and affordable housing Delivering the governmen…" Hansard

"I take this opportunity to mark an important week for our armed forces. I welcome everything my hon. Friend says about support for our armed forces and their families by way of investment in their homes and more money in…" Hansard

"Very proud of those with the character and courage to step forward to serve. On Armed Forces Day, we celebrate their professionalism and dedication. Our nation is forever grateful for your service and sacrifice. From t…" Hansard

"As Members on both sides of the House have said over many years, this Bill is unlike most others that come before us. It is not simply a piece of Government business; it is the foundation on which our armed forces rest. …" Hansard

"In advance of the Govt’s work to enshrine the Armed Forces Covenant into law, the Defence Select Committee has an inquiry to look at how the Covenant is currently failing There is special dispensation for serving perso…" Hansard

"9. What steps he is taking to improve armed forces housing." Hansard

"Councils most in need will have more money to bring back clean streets, fill potholes and restore local services through an extra £440 million funding boost confirmed today (February 9). Around £78 billion is being made …" Hansard

"sweeping measures announced today include sanctions on the Russian military intelligence agency (GRU) in its entirety, as Dawn Sturgess Inquiry’s final report finds Putin personally ordered their activity in Salisbury in…" Hansard

"Will the Minister look at the sorry tale of Glenart Castle Mess in Longbridge, Birmingham? This is armed forces accommodation not from decades ago; it opened in 2017 at a cost to the taxpayer of £36 million. It was built…" Hansard

"It is an honour to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Efford. Clause 42 amends sections 3A, 4 and 4A of the Ministry of Defence Police Act 1987. It widens the power to make regulations under section 3A(1) so that provisio…" Hansard

"Over the past year, I have had the privilege of taking part in the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme, allowing me to spend time directly with members of our Armed Forces." Hansard

"I managed 2.56 miles in 5mins for the annual IPT poppy ride in association with the Royal British Legion - in boots and a dress I might add! As a former employee of RBL, I’m incredibly passionate about supporting them a…" Hansard

"Our armed forces aren’t simply hanging around, as the Leader of the Opposition claims. Proud to show my respect for our armed forces personnel, who continue to serve day in, day out on the land, in the air and at sea, k…" Hansard

"When this Government took office, they inherited an armed forces on its knees and responded to that challenge with the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the cold war and a bold 10-year strategic defenc…" Hansard

"Order. I am imposing a six-minute time limit." Hansard

"Good morning. It’s great to see you all today. The UN’s theme this year - “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials” – couldn’t be more timely. And it really resonates with me after my visit to Jamaica to see the aftermath …" Hansard

"Today I joined remembrance services in Rottingdean and Peacehaven to honour all those who gave their lives in service to our country. It’s always deeply moving to see our communities come together to remember the courag…" Hansard

"The UK Government is making Scotland a great place to invest: ➡️ free trade agreements with the EU, India and US ➡️ Scotland as the UK's clean energy powerhouse ➡️ biggest sustained increase in defence spending since th…" Hansard

"It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mr Efford. I rise to speak to new clause 6, which seeks to appoint a national veterans commissioner for England. Although the hon. Member for South Northamptonshire has rai…" Hansard

"Victims *must* be at the heart of the Service Justice System and we are strengthening protections and improving accountability to do just that in our Armed Forces Bill. This is a no-fail mission for me. www.mirror.co.u…" Hansard

"Had a brilliant catch up with Transport Minister @heidialexander.bsky.social ahead of the Bus Bill, before an amazing and insightful discussion with service users from Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change. Then into the C…" Hansard

"This UK Labour Government is stepping up support for our Armed Forces families in Wales with 30 hours of funded childcare for children aged 9 months to 3 years 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿👶 Starting in September 2026, this offer cou…" Hansard

"Today I spoke to Anna-Louise, whose husband, Zach, died with an incurable blood cancer earlier this year. Zach was an RAF Flight Sergeant and one of at least 180 armed forces aircrew with cancer they believe was caused …" Hansard

"I congratulate my right hon. Friend on this excellent review, and ask whether he will do all he can to use this new focus on British industry to choose AERALIS as the replacement for the Hawk jet, meaning thousands of jo…" Hansard

"The first duty of any Prime Minister is to ensure the safety of our nation. Defence spending will increase to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027. In an increasingly uncertain world, securing our country is more important than …" Hansard

"Through select committees many MPs on all sides do work together. Committee Corridor is a podcast highlighting this work. The first episode in this parliament highlights the work of Defence Sel Comm on women in Armed F…" Hansard

"Would the hon. Gentleman agree that due regard is a long-established legal concept that lots of public bodies already understand? It is already routinely applied in practice, and to change the definition for the purposes…" Hansard

"Supporting Our Armed Forces in Yorkshire & The Humber Labour is delivering real change for those who serve. Over 3,000 military homes are being upgraded because our heroes deserve the best. This is about dignity, safe…" Hansard

"As we mark the centenary of Kirkcaldy War Memorial, today I had the solemn honour of leading the reading aloud of names of the 1500 members of our Armed Forces who gave their lives and are remembered on it. This collect…" Hansard

"British industries such as energy, steel and cyber are set to get more money from government spending under new plans being considered to protect UK national security. Central government departments will be told to consi…" Hansard

"In the 2024 Manifesto we promised to stand up for our armed forces and veterans. Today we have launched the VALOUR programme - designed by veterans for Veterans." Hansard

"Over the weekend, Labour MP @graemedowniemp.bsky.social called for the pension triple lock to be reformed to fund higher defence spending “If there is to be a true whole of society approach to defence, and younger peopl…" Hansard

"Very poignant multi-faith #RemembranceSunday service in Ealing. I took part in the march to the memorial and laid a wreath in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice Lovely parade including cadets/ guides/ sco…" Hansard

"The contributions made by Gurkha veterans to our armed forces and our country must never be forgotten, which is why I’ve invited the Veterans minister to visit the amazing Gurkha community centre that we have in Reading,…" Hansard

"An honour to host a meeting on tackling abuse in the UK armed forces in Parliament today, with @CRINwire @cmjhq @SaluteHerUK Those serving our country should never face sexual, physical or emotional abuse." Hansard

"The UK Government is making Scotland a great place to invest: ➡️ free trade agreements with the EU, India and US ➡️ Scotland as the UK's clean energy powerhouse ➡️ biggest sustained increase in defence spending since th…" Hansard

"On Tuesday, the Prime Minister set out the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War. This commitment will protect British people in what is a new era for national security, a new era of intensify…" Hansard

"I am proud to be part of a Government who are building ships in Scotland, whereas our Scottish Government colleagues are building ferries in Poland, Turkey and now China. Quite incredible. Mr Speaker, you will be pleased…" Hansard

"GOV.UK Forms to be rolled out across government, making it faster and easier for the public to fill out forms such as applying for emergency travel documents Tool has already helped over 20,000 armed forces personal appl…" Hansard

"🎄Wishing you a Merry Christmas. Grateful to all at work, inc. our armed forces and emergency services. Christmas can be hard for some (won’t be our easiest one, losing Mum). Thinking of all for whom that’s true. Hope…" Hansard

"State-of-the-art centre housing 30 hearing rooms to open in central London Backed by £148.5m to repair and modernise the tribunal estate Part of the government’s Plan for Change to tackle the tribunal backlog The UK’s la…" Hansard

"Does the Minister agree that it is precisely because of the complexity of these cases, which potentially involve numerous different Government Departments, that we need an envoy for complex consular cases, who has not ju…" Hansard

"I thank my hon. Friend for giving way and for the speech he is giving. I am very proud that the Royal Naval Reserve is based in part on the banks of the Tyne, on Gateshead quays. Does he agree that visible representation…" Hansard

"3. What assessment she has made of the potential impact of the Government’s increased defence spending on Wales." Hansard

"This Armed Forces Week, we honour the brave men and women who serve our country with unwavering dedication. Our Labour government has delivered the biggest pay rise in two decades, and now we’re launching Homes Fit for …" Hansard

"Our Armed Forces make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe. In June we will come together to show our support on Armed Forces Day. Labour have made £500,000 available for local events. Bid here: armedforcesday.org.…" Hansard

"Will my hon. Friend assure me that this Government’s increased investment in our armed forces and the defence investment plan will offer huge opportunities for the defence sector in Scotland, not least at the Methil yard…" Hansard

"It was good to drop into the North East Lincolnshire Armed Forces Community Health Fair yesterday at Grimsby Town Hall. Well done to everyone involved, it was really interesting to hear how you are supporting local re…" Hansard

"New regulations to further support UK Armed Forces Veterans in housing need Removal of five-year local connection link removed for our heroes looking for social housing Changes build on government’s commitment to honour …" Hansard

"I remember defence “investment” under the last Government; I was serving when our pay was cut, our defence housing was ruined, and equipment projects were cancelled and underfunded. In fact, it was under the Conservative…" Hansard

"Our Armed Forces put their lives on the line for us every day. It was a pleasure to meet Al Carns, Minister for Veterans, to hear about what the government is doing to support military families. Thank you to all who …" Hansard

"Long overdue reforms to SEND provision, must address the real challenges faced by far too many armed forces families looking to access support. Today I pressed Ministers to ensure they do 👇" Hansard

"As we mark eighty-one years since VE Day, we give thanks to the men and women of our armed forces, who triumphed over tyranny to secure victory and safety for our country. The courage and selflessness displayed by our Wo…" Hansard

"the UK sanctions former Sri Lankan commanders and an ex–Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) commander responsible for serious human rights violations and abuses during the civil war sanctions aim to seek accountabili…" Hansard

"15. What steps he is taking to support armed forces families." Hansard

"£74 million for clean energy upgrades to cut bills by tens of millions for public buildings Hospitals and military bases to benefit from more efficient lighting, solar panels and heat pumps £9 million to be delivered in …" Hansard

"My mum Ruth Johnson worked in a munitions factory in Cheshire, contributing to a key part of the war effort at home that kept our armed forces supplied on the frontline. #GreatestGeneration #VE80" Hansard

"The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, alongside Parliamentary under-Secretary of State, Matthew Patrick MP, will welcome Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, and Min…" Hansard

"I thank my hon. Friend for her question and for always standing up for the people of Stafford, whether by supporting bringing a market back to the town or supporting the brickmaking sector. This Government are investing …" Hansard

"I can confirm to my hon. and learned Friend and to the House that we are progressing the appointment of an envoy. One of the issues we have sought to navigate in the appointment of an envoy is that the Government and I r…" Hansard

"We are delivering for defence by putting people at the heart of our defence plans. We have secured a deal to buy back 36,000 military homes to improve housing for forces families and save taxpayers £600,000 a day in rent…" Hansard

"I congratulate my right hon. Friend on doing so much to bring housing back under control and to upgrade it, as well as on the roll-out of Valour centres—the Links charity in Llanelli has put in an excellent application. …" Hansard

"I am going to start by doing something unusual in these debates: I am going to agree with the Opposition. I agree that we need to spend more on defence, I agree that we are in a once-in-a-century moment where the safety …" Hansard

"On Armistice Day we remember all those who have given their service for our country, and thank the brave members of our armed forces community who continue to serve. We will never forget the sacrifices made for our free…" Hansard

"The Minister will have recognised the strength of feeling on both sides of the House about wanting to see the defence investment plan published as soon as possible, and I hope Treasury Ministers will share that understan…" Hansard

"3. What assessment he has made of the potential impact of increases in defence spending on Mid and South Pembrokeshire constituency." Hansard

"Does the hon. Gentleman agree that the problem with his Government’s drone strategy was that they did not invest in satellites, making us reliant on foreign satellites for full capability, and they did not invest in the …" Hansard

"3. Utilities When Britain lays new tram track, utility firms can demand pipes and cables are moved, and the tram builder usually pays, meaning they get more moved than is necesary. Costs are almost all paid (92.5%) fo…" Hansard

"Had a brilliant time at the Armed Forces Day event at Caldicot Castle - thanks MCC for putting on such a great day. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🇬🇧 Apologies if you can't hear me too well… the Caldicot Male Voice Choir were in full …" Hansard

"7. What steps he is taking to protect UK armed forces personnel in the middle east." Hansard

"Like all hon. Members, I had the honour this weekend of being part of a local remembrance service. As always, Newport cenotaph was hugely well attended by veterans, service personnel and residents from across our city, w…" Hansard

"I beg to move, That this House has considered armed forces recruitment in the North East. It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Dr Allin-Khan. It is an honour to lead this debate in Armed Forces Week, as we …" Hansard

"The right hon. Gentleman is right to talk about the different pressures that cause people to leave. Will he join me in welcoming the fact that in the year to September 2025, there was 1,000 more in inflow to the regular …" Hansard

"I beg to move, That the Committee has considered the draft Armed Forces Commissioner (Family Definition, and Consequential and Transitional Provision etc.) Regulations 2026. It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmans…" Hansard

"There are many things in the hon. Gentleman’s speech that I agree with, but as someone who grew up on the Clyde, does he welcomes the naval shipbuilding on the Clyde and the sales to Norway. Those who live in Scotland—I …" Hansard

"It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mr Efford. I welcome the clauses we are considering. This Government were elected to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve, and this Bill promises to do that. We…" Hansard

"I, too, will start by agreeing with a member of the Opposition, specifically the former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace. He was quoted as saying that under his own party, our armed forces had been “hollowed out”." Hansard

"It is a pleasure briefly to the debate today. May I associate myself with the words of other hon. Members, reflecting the respect and gratitude we have for servicemen and servicewomen, past and present, and of course, re…" Hansard

"Today is the 81st anniversary of VE Day, commemorating the end of World War 2 in Europe. We honour the courage and dedication of our armed forces past and present. They and their families make extraordinary sacrifices t…" Hansard

"The hon. Member celebrates the Labour Government’s decision to create Team Plymouth. She celebrates the Labour Government’s decision to designate Plymouth the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, and she celebrates the c…" Hansard

"Specialist Army team parachute from an RAF A400M onto remote island, with medical personnel in-tandem and oxygen supplies and medical equipment. Tristan da Cunha – Britian’s most remote overseas territory – is located de…" Hansard

"Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones visits Ukraine to address the United for Justice Conference, underlining the UK’s commitment to holding Russia to account for crimes c…" Hansard

"Our outstanding armed forces are in the middle east, protecting our people, our interests and our allies. The Royal Air Force has now conducted over 550 hours of defensive operations in five countries, and drones have be…" Hansard

"As the PM outlined, this is the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, and is necessary as the UK faces an era of profound change, intensifying geopolitical competition and conflicts overseas …" Hansard

"New partnership helps veteran-led businesses access export finance, supporting delivery of the Government’s Veterans Strategy Financial support includes working capital guarantees, bond support and export insurance UK Ex…" Hansard

"A big thank you to Al Carns MP for speaking at our Rochester and Strood Labour fundraiser. We have a strong military history in my constituency, and it was great to hear from our widely decorated Armed Forces Minister. A…" Hansard

"🇬🇧🇮🇷 Our Armed Forces in the Middle East are working day and night to protect our people, support allies, and defend our interests. If you want a clear picture of what’s happening from a UK perspective, the Ministry…" Hansard

"New radar systems will help unlock 10 GW of offshore wind in UK waters, powering thousands of homes with clean, homegrown energy New technology secures coexistence of air defence and offshore wind – enabling government t…" Hansard

"This Labour Government is getting on with the job. 🎖️Supporting veterans with a new Armed Forces Commissioner. 👧Protecting our most vulnerable by overhauling the children’s social care system. 🚂Full steam ahead wit…" Hansard

"UK and E3 partners cancel bilateral arrangements with Iran, which will restrict Iran Air services into the UK and Europe UK and US announce co-ordinated sanctions against Iranian and Russian individuals and organisations…" Hansard

"The public intervention by Lord Robertson, a former Defence Secretary and former NATO Secretary-General is sobering. For a man of his stature to make such an assessment shows the gravity of the situation. Indeed, he was …" Hansard

"Glad to be in the chamber today as the PM delivered his statement on the situation in the Middle East. It’s such a relief that we have a PM who is measured, working within the law, ensuring that our armed forces are pri…" Hansard

"The hon. Gentleman is right to point out the devastating record of the Conservatives, but does he share my sadness and frustration at the role played by the Liberal Democrats in hollowing out the size of our armed forces…" Hansard

"Would the right hon. Gentleman update me on where he heard that the Government have any intention whatsoever of withdrawing the HM forces or HM veterans railcards? I have a veterans railcard, and I have not seen any evid…" Hansard

"I genuinely respect my friend the shadow Minister, but seriously, defence was hollowed out in his party’s time in government. Our safety is the primary responsibility of any Government, and more must be spent on our defe…" Hansard

"My fortnightly Lynn News column was published today, and in it I speak about Remembrance Day, and the Government's work to ensure our armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families are supported." Hansard

"My belief in the importance of national defence is rooted in the single, simple idea that the United Kingdom is a nation inherently worth defending—not because of tradition or nostalgia, but because of the values of dece…" Hansard

"Like many Members across the House, I am on the armed forces parliamentary scheme, and I get to meet some incredible people through training, including people who are serving. They are totally committed and ready to serv…" Hansard

"Labour is taking decisive action to back our Armed Forces & their families who make huge sacrifices to keep us safe. This landmark Bill delivers on our promise to put service personnel, veterans & their families first. P…" Hansard

"Victims *must* be at the heart of the Service Justice System and we are strengthening protections and improving accountability to do just that in our Armed Forces Bill. This is a no-fail mission for me. www.mirror.co.u…" Hansard

"The communities I represent in St Helens North have a long and proud connection with the armed forces, from the St Helens Pals of the first world war, to groups such as Newton-le-Willows sea cadets and local veterans org…" Hansard

"May I say how delighted I am to see the introduction of a commissioner for our armed forces and veterans? It is badly needed, and I am sure that the commissioner will be appreciated and will make vast improvements to the…" Hansard

"LOVED having St. Johns Primary in Parliament! They were brilliant and showed exactly why giving young people the chance to explore our democracy matters. They got to meet Armed Forces Minister, Al Carns, who was buzzin…" Hansard

"Today we mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day 🇬🇧 My office was honoured to lay a wreath at the Old Town commemoration event this morning to express our deep gratitude for the immense sacrifice made by our Armed Forces …" Hansard

"On Sunday, I was at the war memorial in Stirling city centre to lay a wreath and to reflect. Stirling’s memorial was completed in 1922. Six hundred and ninety-two names were recorded on the monument that first year, and …" Hansard

"We talked about how veterans support is funded, how that can be changed to make it more local here, and the introduction of the new armed forces commissioner." Hansard

"Great to meet Mikey O'Mahoney from Harmattan AI, a fascinating drone company doing impressive work with the UK Armed Forces. They're looking to expand into Swindon and become part of the local defence and tech ecosystem,…" Hansard

"I know there are many British citizens across the region, including our Armed Forces and their families. I’m especially conscious of Telford’s strong historic and current connections to the Armed Forces and this part of …" Hansard

"The Government’s decision to increase defence spending is not only an ironclad commitment to national security, but also an investment in British industry. Today I asked the Chancellor how this additional funding can b…" Hansard

"Order. I remind Members that they should bob if they wish to be called in the debate." Hansard

"It really is a pleasure to be here with you all today. But I do want to just begin, by joining Maros in wishing all our Irish friends a very happy St Patricks Day. I’d also like to thank the Assembly… …especially the Cha…" Hansard

"The business for the week commencing 1 June will include: Monday 1 June—Second Reading of the Health Bill. Tuesday 2 June—Committee of the whole House on the Armed Forces Bill. Wednesday 3 June—Remaining stages of the Ra…" Hansard

"I came into this place only in 2017. I was deeply disappointed by what happened in 2014 and our failure to stand by Ukraine on the invasion of Crimea. I think Michael Fallon was one of the few who said, “We should actual…" Hansard

"I want to support measures that protect the safety and security of our community. That is why, I fully support the Prime Minister's announcement to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027." Hansard

"106 police officers, firefighters, overseas workers and other public servants who died in service have been recognised with the Elizabeth Emblem. The Elizabeth Emblem recognises the sacrifices made by public servants who…" Hansard

"Local volunteers like Graham Walker are the heart of our community, keeping the spirit of Remembrance alive. I was very pleased to present him with a Letter of Appreciation recognising his dedication to veterans and the …" Hansard

"3. What steps he is taking through defence spending to help increase economic growth." Hansard