In response to Simon Jenkins' article questioning the need for increased defence spending, readers have raised several counterpoints that they believe are missing from the debate. Steve Barwick, chair of the Nuclear Education Trust, argues that while Russia poses a serious threat, higher spending is not necessarily the answer, as European Nato members already outspend Russia. Instead, he calls for more political resolve and a clear plan to end the war in Ukraine.
Nuclear costs under scrutiny
Barwick also highlights the growing cost of nuclear weapons programmes, which the public accounts committee says will rise from 18% to 25% of the defence budget. This includes the Dreadnought replacement for Trident, which is behind schedule, and £15bn for a new UK-developed nuclear weapon, Astraea. He criticises the government's proposal for a new parliamentary committee to oversee nuclear expenditure, as it will be appointed by the prime minister, report only to the prime minister, and meet in private. He calls for greater parliamentary scrutiny and a more informed public debate.
Preparing for peace through strength
Hector Tsukagoshi of London disagrees with Jenkins, arguing that cutting defence funding would leave Britain worse off. He notes that while there is no imminent threat, the rise of authoritarians means the UK must be able to defend itself and its allies. He points to Russia's covert cyber-warfare and the need to deter China and Russia from military action. Tsukagoshi also emphasises that the military provides employment, drives innovation, and responds to disasters, from emergency care on Tristan da Cunha to aid in Venezuela.
Russian atrocities and covert actions
Jari Mäkelä of Helsinki criticises Jenkins for describing Russia's actions as 'making a nuisance of itself', citing recent attacks on Kyiv that killed at least 20 people. He reminds readers of the Salisbury novichok poisoning and recent reports of Russian drone surveillance of nuclear sites in the UK, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Mäkelä urges a stronger response to Russian aggression.
