Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to unveil a £3 billion increase in the defence budget as part of Labour's first Budget.
This move comes amid growing concerns about the UK's military readiness and its ability to respond to global conflicts. The funding boost will also include a pay rise for soldiers and aims to address the manpower crisis within the armed forces. Despite this significant investment, Labour has yet to commit to a timeline for increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP.
The announcement is expected to be part of a broader strategy to balance defence needs with economic pressures.
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Budget latest: Tax rises expected but chancellor will promise 'more pounds in people's pockets'
Rachel Reeves will pledge to "invest, invest, invest" when she sets out the budget at 12.30pm. While the government has insisted "working people" will not face tax rises, a number of levies could increase.
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