Concerns over the possibility of a third world war in the near future are prevalent among the majority of British citizens, a recent Deltapoll survey reveals. The survey indicates that 68% of respondents are apprehensive about the prospect of a global conflict, with 29% expressing high levels of worry and 39% moderately concerned.
These fears have been exacerbated by recent events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ongoing military actions involving the US and Israel in Iran. The survey also highlights a general unease regarding defense spending, with 42% of participants advocating for an increase in funding. Notably, over half of Conservative and Reform supporters support a boost in defense expenditure, in contrast to 43% of Labour voters and 45% of Liberal Democrats.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has committed to raising defense spending to 3.5% by 2035, up from the current 2.6%. However, pressure from defense officials and lawmakers has urged for a quicker and more substantial increase. Opposition leader Keir Starmer has also faced calls to release a delayed defense investment plan amid concerns about the country’s military capabilities. Former Labour defense secretary Lord Robertson has cautioned that the UK’s security is at risk and criticized the Treasury for insufficient funding.
Chair of the Defence Committee, Tan Dhesi MP, has emphasized the urgency for action, stating that Britain is facing heightened threats and needs significant military investment to address future challenges. The Defense Committee has urged the government to raise defense spending to 3% of GDP before the upcoming election and expressed concerns about the delayed Defense Investment Plan, which has left the defense industry in uncertainty.
In response, a Ministry of Defence spokesperson assured that the forthcoming Defense Investment Plan will outline strategies to equip the Armed Forces effectively to tackle future threats. The government has emphasized a new era for defense in light of evolving security challenges, with the Strategic Defence Review aiming to enhance national security and global strength. The spokesperson highlighted the substantial increase in defense spending, amounting to £270 billion in this parliamentary term, to prevent a return to past vulnerabilities in the Armed Forces.