UK needs 'credible path' on defence spending, says Nato chief

By Paul Seddon Political reporter Published 24 minutes ago Nato chief Mark Rutte has said he is confident the UK government understands the need for a "credible path" to increase defence spending.

The alliance's secretary general told the BBC he was "absolutely confident" in the UK's commitment to hit a Nato-wide spending target of 3.5% of GDP by 2035.

Speaking after meetings in London, he said British ministers accepted the need to make yearly steps towards hitting the target.

But he accepted that the exact "pathway" towards the goal would not be set out until next year.

Since entering Downing Street, Andy Burnham has recommitted to the Nato 3.5% target, after predecessor Sir Keir Starmer signed up to the goal last year.