Andy Burnham: National security can't come at expense of social security
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is facing pressure from the Conservative opposition regarding his defense spending commitments. Burnham maintains that national security must be balanced with social welfare, rejecting calls for immediate cuts to social programs to fund military expansion.
Why it matters
This debate highlights the ongoing tension in UK politics between meeting NATO defense spending targets and maintaining domestic social safety nets.
Figure caption, National security 'can't come at the expense of social security', says Burnham
Andy Burnham has said national security "can't come at the expense of social security", as he was challenged over funding for defence at Prime Minister's Questions.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch pressed Burnham over whether he would spend 3% of GDP on defence by 2030 and how he would pay for this.
The PM said the government's commitment to defence was "absolute" and he would set a target date to reach the 3% figure in the spring.
Burnham said he would fund defence and get the welfare bill down in "the Labour way", by changing education, supporting young people and providing more mental health support.
The Conservatives seized on the comments, with a party spokesperson saying: "Britain heard it loud and clear today: Andy Burnham will not cut welfare to fund the defence of our country.
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