UK preparedness campaign’s tone risks putting people off sound advice

The article criticises the UK Government’s Be Ready campaign, which advises people to keep basic supplies in case of a national emergency. The writer argues that preparedness is sensible, but says the campaign’s tone and choice of Defence Secretary Wes Streeting as its public face could cause unnecessary alarm and make people less willing to listen.

The campaign highlights risks including natural disasters, foreign attack and cyber disruption to supermarket payments, and recommends items such as bottled water, canned food and toilet paper. The writer contrasts this advice with what he sees as gaps in the Government’s own preparedness, citing its defence spending plans, a £2 billion cut to armoured vehicle procurement and its response to illegal boat crossings. He argues that officials should trust the public’s common sense and avoid sounding patronising.