British Opposition Leader Keir Starmer pledged on Monday to protect the country's nuclear deterrent, seeking assurances that the country will be safe in the hands of a Labor-led government ahead of the July 4 election.
Describing Labor as the “party of national security”, Starmer will focus his campaign on defence, seen as a weak point in Britain's main opposition party under his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn, a long-time supporter of nuclear disarmament.
As conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza escalate, security has become a focus ahead of the July 4 election, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak saying only his Conservative Party can keep voters safe in a changing world.
“National security will always come first in the New Labor Party I lead. Keeping our country safe is the bedrock of stability that the British people rightly expect from their government,” Starmer said in a statement.
“My message to them is clear: Labor has changed. It is no longer the party of opposition, it is the party of Labor's national security.”
Keir Starmer will commit to the so-called “triple lock of nuclear deterrence” – building four new nuclear submarines, maintaining a constant deterrence at sea and all necessary upgrades to the submarines.
Despite Labor leading in the polls, party officials hope to support thousands of undecided voters who Starmer repeatedly calls a “changed party” that can be trusted to fight on defence, health and immigration.
The Conservatives, in government since 2010, believe they have a strong defense plan with a commitment to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP a year by 2030 – Labor says it wants to match it, but only “when resources allow”. .
Henry Blackwell is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. His work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism.