Foreign Affairs and Defence

The debate began with the new Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, outlining the government's priorities for defence and national security. He emphasized the government's unshakeable commitment to NATO and its plan to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP as soon as possible. Healey also announced the launch of a new strategic defence review and the creation of an armed forces commissioner to improve service life. In response, the shadow Defence Secretary, James Cartlidge, welcomed the new ministerial team but expressed concerns about the government's timetable for reaching the 2.5% defence spending target. Cartlidge argued that any delay in this commitment could have serious implications for defence procurement and the military's capabilities. The debate that followed covered a wide range of foreign affairs and defence issues. Many new MPs made impressive maiden speeches, highlighting the diversity of the House and their personal connections to their constituencies. Several speakers, including Layla Moran and Imran Hussain, called for the government to take a stronger stance on the conflict in Gaza, including by ending arms sales to Israel. Other topics discussed included the importance of international development and the UK's overseas aid budget, the need to support Ukraine for as long as necessary, and concerns about the size and morale of the armed forces. Members from across the House emphasized the importance of cross-party cooperation on national security matters. The Minister of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Anneliese Dodds, closed the debate by reaffirming the government's commitment to restoring the UK's global reputation, supporting Ukraine, and pursuing a two-state solution in the Middle East. She acknowledged the damage done to the UK's development reputation under previous governments and pledged to work towards returning to the 0.7% aid spending target as soon as fiscal circumstances allow.