Badenoch slams PM over Europe policy as Tory pressure mounts

Defence spending under scrutiny

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of avoiding tough decisions on European security, urging him to boost defence spending during a speech on Thursday. Her comments came as Conservative MPs intensify pressure on Labour over its approach to NATO commitments and regional stability.

Badenoch argued that Starmer must confront the reality of growing threats rather than act as if peace is guaranteed. She criticised what she called a reluctance to make hard choices on military investment, suggesting the government is prioritising domestic issues over national security.

The prime minister has so far resisted calls to raise Britain’s defence budget beyond the NATO target of 2.5% of GDP. Badenoch claimed his government is „fiddling while Europe risks burning,” echoing concerns from former military chiefs about readiness gaps. She added that delays in equipment procurement and recruitment shortfalls are undermining operational capacity.

Is Labour doing enough on security?

Starmer’s office responded by reiterating Labour’s commitment to meeting NATO targets within a decade, while highlighting recent investments in new warships and fighter jets. Officials noted that defence spending has already increased by £12 billion since the last parliament.

Critics within her own party have questioned whether Badenoch’s rhetoric matches Conservative record on defence. During their time in power, Tory governments increased spending but failed to reach the 2% threshold for several years. Labour inherited a £20 billion black hole in the defence budget when it took office, prompting difficult decisions on legacy projects.

Despite this, polling shows public concern about immigration and cost of living still outweighs security worries for many voters. However, recent events in Eastern Europe have shifted some attention back to defence preparedness.

Looking ahead, all major parties face pressure to clarify long-term strategies. With elections due by 2029, defence policy could become a defining issue if global tensions persist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Kemi Badenoch say about Keir Starmer’s Europe policy? She accused him of avoiding difficult decisions and urged increased defence spending, warning that Europe faces rising security risks.

How much does the UK currently spend on defence? The UK is expected to spend around 2.3% of GDP on defence this year, below the NATO target of 2.5%.

Will Labour commit to raising defence spending further? Labour says it will meet NATO targets within a decade but has not committed to immediate increases beyond current plans.