From Cadets and Veterans to Businesses: We All Have a Part to Play in an uncertain world

Over the weekend, the Prime Minister represented the UK at the Munich Security Conference, joining nearly 50 heads of state at a moment of growing danger for Europe. With war raging in Europe and authoritarian regimes testing democracies, he warned this is the gravest threat to European security since 1945.

In Munich, the Prime Minister drew a clear dividing line in British politics. While Labour is unequivocal in its support for NATO and standing up to Putin, he warned that other parties — including the Greens and Reform — are soft on NATO and complacent about Putin’s aggression. Peace is preserved not by retreat or wishful thinking, but by strength, unity and deterrence. Weakening NATO does not reduce the risk of conflict — it increases it.

NATO has been the most successful defensive alliance in history. For over 75 years it has safeguarded peace across Europe through collective security, not provocation. As the Prime Minister made clear, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is not a failure of NATO, but a reminder of why it exists. British leadership within NATO also means rebuilding close, practical cooperation with our European allies, because our security and prosperity are inseparable.

Strengthening our defence does more than keep us safe — it helps grow our economy. The Conservatives hollowed out our armed forces, leaving them at their smallest since we fought Napoleon.

To meet the growing threats facing Europe, Labour is increasing defence spending, with £800 million of additional investment to strengthen British manufacturing, supply chains and skills. We are backing British businesses, with a new team to help small firms win defence contracts. From UK-built Type 26 frigates selected by Norway, creating 4,000 jobs and £10bn, to the £8bn deal with Turkey sustaining 20,000 UK jobs, defence investment is delivering real returns. And if local businesses want to explore these opportunities, I am ready to support and work with them.

But defence is not just equipment — it is people. Those who serve deserve respect backed by action. The Armed Forces Bill introduced in January commits £9bn to build, renew and repair military housing. We are ending Tory privatisation through Labour’s buy-back scheme, saving over £200m a year to reinvest in better living standards for our armed forces.

There are nearly 3,000 veterans living in High Peak. I thank every one of them for their service — but I know words are not enough. No veteran should face homelessness after serving their country. By extending Operation FORTITUDE with £12m of funding, we are delivering dedicated wraparound support for those at risk.

I am grateful to local champions like Building Bridges in Chapel, whose work providing therapeutic supported living for former Armed Forces personnel is a source of real pride for High Peak.

In January, I also had the honour of meeting the Glossop Cadets. Their values — service, kindness and community — reflect the very best of Britain, and I encourage anyone considering volunteering to take that step.

As the Prime Minister said in Munich, security is the foundation on which everything else is built. In a dangerous world, strength is not optional — it is a responsibility. That means standing firm in NATO, working closely with Europe, investing in British industry, and treating those who serve — past and present — with genuine respect.

That is what a renewed Britain under Labour looks like.