Britain’s arms industry was left ‘reeling’ yesterday as Defence Secretary John Healey quit amid a bitter spending row.
Industry body ADS and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said it was imperative that the Government publish its defence budget plans without delay.
Healey said he was left with ‘no other option’ but to resign after it was revealed the Defence Investment Plan would raise spending by just £13.5billion – far short of what military chiefs say they need to transform Britain’s forces to face a more dangerous world amid a growing threat from Russia.
The settlement is expected to be announced soon after months of delays.
Kevin Craven, boss of ADS, said Healey’s exit ‘has sent us reeling’, adding: ‘His resignation is something to lament and is truly a damning reflection on the current state of affairs.
‘The consequences for the UK and our allies, of getting our Defence Investment Plan wrong, as seems certain, are of a magnitude far beyond our worst fears.’
Shock move: Defence Secretary John Healey resigned in protest after it was revealed that the Defence Investment Plan would see spending increased by just £13.5bn
CBI chief executive Rain Newton-Smith said: ‘We live in a precarious world where our peace and security is being tested.
‘Enhancing our national security is vital, and a Government commitment to higher defence spending is a key part of this.
‘Delay carries a cost – not only to our security, but also to investor confidence. There is no time to waste.’
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