Sir Keir Starmer Asserts Willingness to Use Nuclear Weapons in Defence of UK Amidst Labour Party Transformation

Labour's Sir Keir Starmer affirmed his willingness to deploy nuclear weapons in defense of the UK, describing the nuclear deterrent as "vital" to national security, and stating unequivocally that he would indeed use it if necessary.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Monday, June 3, 2024, 2:

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Sir Keir Starmer has stated his readiness to use nuclear weapons in defense of the UK if necessary.

The head of the Labour Party stated that the nuclear deterrent is crucial for the nation's security, affirming that he would indeed be ready to deploy it if necessary.

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He declined to specify the situations that might compel him to adopt such measures should he be elected prime minister.

His remarks underscore his resolve to present Labour as a reformed party, distinct from its past under the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn, who was a staunch nuclear disarmament advocate.

When questioned about whether he would approve the use of nuclear weapons if required, Sir Keir stated, "Regarding the nuclear deterrent, it's essential and a crucial aspect of our defense strategy. Naturally, this implies that we must be ready to deploy it if necessary.

"Indeed, no one with ambitions of becoming prime minister would openly detail the scenarios in which such authority might be exercised. To do so would be reckless."

"It exists as an integral element of our defense strategy. Thus, naturally, we must be ready to deploy it if necessary."

When questioned about the specific situations in which the deterrent might be deployed, Sir Keir emphasized that "this is highly confidential information."

He also asserted that his entire shadow cabinet supports him, even when questioned about past dissent from some of his senior team members.

During a press interaction at a campaign event held at the Fusilier Museum in Bury, Sir Keir was asked about the fact that his deputy Angela Rayner and shadow foreign secretary David Lammy had voted against the upkeep of the UK's nuclear arsenal eight years prior.

Sir Keir stated, "I am the leader of this party, I have transformed it… and my entire shadow cabinet supports me.

"I am fully aware that the primary concern is the national security and protection of our nation. This is the reason I supported the renewal of the deterrent."

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After delivering a speech where he committed to making Labour "the party of national security," Sir Keir answered questions from the audience.

He stated that the Labour Party is committed to preserving the UK's maritime defense capabilities, financing any necessary enhancements, and managing the building of four new nuclear submarines in Barrow-in-Furness.

He further pledged to allocate up to 2.5% of GDP to defense "as soon as feasible," though he did not specify a timeline.

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The Conservative Party has committed to the same spending level, with a goal to achieve it by the year 2030.

Defense Secretary Grant Shapps described Sir Keir's speech as "lacking substance" and rebuked him for not adhering to their proposed schedule for defense expenditure.

He stated: "David Lammy, selected by Starmer as the foreign secretary, has labeled the UK’s nuclear deterrent as 'senseless.' This undermines the assertion that Labour has transformed.

"Clearly, Starmer does not possess the boldness or determination necessary to defend Britain's safety."

The topic of defense has historically been a challenging issue for the Labour Party.

Numerous members from the left wing of the party have expressed their opposition to continuing the UK’s nuclear weapons program, with many MPs casting votes against the deterrent system in 2016.

Former party leader Mr. Corbyn once remarked that nuclear arms were of no benefit to the U.S. during the 9/11 attacks, and he stated that he would not be willing to initiate a nuclear strike.

After delivering his speech, Sir Keir stated on X that nuclear weapons pose a significant and existential threat to human existence.

"Rather than allocating resources to develop formidable armaments, it would be more beneficial to focus our investments on enhancing educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and housing infrastructure to guarantee a fulfilling and prosperous existence for all."

"That's the true definition of security."

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Labour's proposals deemed 'ethically reprehensible and fiscally irresponsible'

The SNP also criticized the remarks, labeling the nuclear deterrent as "morally repugnant."

Shadow defence spokesperson Martin Docherty-Hughes stated, "Amid a financial crisis, it is categorically inappropriate for Keir Starmer to allocate billions in taxpayer funds to maintain nuclear arsenals within close proximity to Scotland.

"Amid escalating global tensions, Scotland is distancing itself from the UK government's nuclear weapons strategy, criticizing it as both ethically reprehensible and fiscally irresponsible."

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