Global wars, a depleted military and stubborn Labour MPs: Healey exposes Starmer’s perfect storm

There is no narrative to convince the British public that difficult economic decisions on defence will be worth it

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As Labour MPs set out the case for change in the tea rooms and bars of Westminster, there is usually one caveat. They believed the prime minister was an asset when it came to national security and had performed beyond expectations on the world stage.

Now that reputation too lies in tatters, after the resignation of John Healey with one of the most quietly damning letters that many can remember. Not a departure over ambition - though Healey certainly has it - but on principle. It is a rare thing to see a loyalist cabinet minister accuse the prime minister and a chancellor of making the country less safe".