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Nigel Farage and Reform UK finally have a chance to show willingness to lead on defence
The article argues that Nigel Farage and Reform UK should use the appointment of defence spokesman Angus MacIntyre to set out a clear defence policy. It says the party has avoided firm positions on Ukraine and Donald Trump’s defence decisions, and urges it to state unequivocal support for Ukraine and explain how Britain should help it resist Russia.
The author calls for Reform to commit to raising defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP, with a timetable and a clear account of what the spending would cover. They also want the party to endorse the recent Strategic Defence Review, support Nato and the UK’s nuclear deterrent, and explain how it would rebuild conventional forces and prepare for high-intensity and hybrid warfare. The article stresses the need for sufficient ships, submarines, aircraft, land forces, trained personnel and logistics.
In short
- Reform UK is urged to set out a clear defence policy.
- The article calls for support for Ukraine and higher defence spending.
- It says Britain needs stronger forces and readiness for modern warfare.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Reform UK should set out a detailed defence policy because voters need to know how it would respond to Russian aggression and changing threats. Clear commitments on support for Ukraine, Nato, defence spending and military readiness would demonstrate seriousness and help the public judge whether the party can govern.
The case against
A party need not adopt the article’s preferred positions or spending target to show it can lead on defence. Reform could reasonably argue that commitments should follow a fresh assessment of threats, costs and the effectiveness of existing plans, while retaining room to scrutinise the Strategic Defence Review and debate the scale and form of support for Ukraine.
Europe Government Politics UK World