BREAKING: Keir Starmer hits back at John Healey's dramatic resignation with defence spending vow

BREAKING: Keir Starmer hits back at John Healey's dramatic resignation with defence spending vow Keir Starmer has insisted he will deliver "an unprecedented increase in defence spending" after John Healey dramatically quit as Defence Secretary earlier today. Keir Starmer has insisted he will deliver "an unprecedented increase in defence spending" after John Healey dramatically quit as Defence Secretary earlier today. Mr Healey lashed out at the Prime Minister and Chancellor Rachel Reeves - saying long-delayed plans for military investment would leave the armed forces vulnerable and make Britain less safe. But in a letter responding to Mr Healey's resignation, the PM suggested he was wrong to criticise the Government's commitment to defence spending, saying the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) will "provide the resources our military need to keep us safe". He said the plans are backed by "necessary investment", adding that the DIP will be underpinned by "sustainable and fair" increases in spending. The PM added: "Strong public finances are part of what keeps us safe - irresponsible borrowing only puts that at risk." In his blistering resignation letter, Mr Healey accused the PM of not standing up to the Treasury, which he claimed was unwilling to commit the funds needed to defend the nation. This is a Breaking News story. You’ll be more likely to see our stories when any big news breaks in future by simply by clicking this link . You can also join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News , TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads - or visit The Mirror homepage .