UK Defence Secretary Resigns Over Defence Investment Plan Funding

John Healey resigned as Defence Secretary on June 11, 2026, after concluding that the Defence Investment Plan settlement would reduce force readiness and increase operational risk. In his resignation letter, Healey wrote that the plan falls short of requirements at a time of rising threats and that extra funding is backloaded into later years.

Healey stated the settlement reaches only 2.68 percent of GDP by 2030, while current commitments already place spending at 2.6 percent next year. He noted that operational pressures, including UK leadership of the Strait of Hormuz mission and NATO's Arctic Sentry mission, require immediate resources rather than deferred increases.

Carns resigned the same day, telling Times Radio that the Defence Investment Plan is not fit for purpose. Carns said the prime minister must address the funding shortfall.

The prime minister stated that the first duty is to keep the British people safe and pledged to take necessary steps to protect national security. A government statement said the move is intended to strengthen the armed forces and address growing threats.

The prime minister also stated that the government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War and that the armed forces will receive the capabilities needed in a dangerous and volatile world. " — Prime minister, June 2026 (BBC) The resignations come as the government continues to outline its approach to defence funding and military readiness.