British Defence Minister John Healey resigned on Thursday following a dispute with Prime Minister Keir Starmer over military spending, saying the government had failed to provide the resources needed to protect the country amid growing security threats.
In a public resignation letter addressed to Starmer, Healey accused both the prime minister and the Treasury of failing to commit sufficient funding for defence at a time of heightened geopolitical risk.
The departure adds to mounting political pressure on Starmer, whose government is facing growing criticism over policy direction, leadership challenges and a series of ministerial resignations.
Healey said a financial settlement presented to him earlier this week fell short of what was required to meet Britain's defence needs.
He argued that military spending was only set to reach 2.68 percent of gross domestic product by 2030, while a firm commitment to 3 percent was necessary given the security environment.
In his letter, Healey cited concerns about rising threats and referenced Starmer's previous warnings that Russia could pose a danger to NATO as early as 2030.
He said the funding shortfall was forcing difficult decisions that could reduce military readiness, increase risks to personnel and leave the country less secure.
Britain's defence and finance ministries have been engaged in months of negotiations over future military spending, delaying the publication of the government's Defence Investment Plan, which military leaders and industry representatives say is urgently needed.
The plan is intended to outline future funding for equipment, services and military preparedness.
Healey's resignation comes as Britain faces multiple military commitments, including leadership roles in international missions and increased security concerns linked to Russia's actions and the conflict in Ukraine.
The government is also contending with broader questions about defence preparedness and long-term military investment.
The resignation is the latest setback for Starmer, who is already facing growing dissent within the Labour Party.
Healey became the sixth minister to leave the government within the past month.
Earlier departures, including that of former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, intensified criticism of the government's direction and leadership.
The continued delay of the Defence Investment Plan has also frustrated Britain's defence industry, which says uncertainty is hindering long-term investment decisions during a period of significant geopolitical instability.