Bexhill and Battle MP supports defence spend

Huw Merriman spoke in support of the Strategic Defence and Security Review, which sets out the country’s defence strategy and included £178bn worth of investment.

Within the review are plans for two new strike brigades with up to 5,000 personnel which can be rapidly deployed.

As well as an increase in the size of the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force by 700, renewal of the country’s nuclear deterrent and the acceleration of the purchase of 42 fighter jets by 2023.

“By creating a stronger economy, we are now in a position to invest further in our security,” Mr Merriman said.

“The first duty of any government is to keep the nation and our communities safe – that is why this investment is fantastic news for the people of Bexhill and Battle.

“I am proud that we are the only major country in the world which is simultaneously going to meet the NATO target of spending two per cent of our GDP on defence and the UN target of spending 0.7 per cent of our GNI on development, while also increasing investment in our security and intelligence agencies and in counter-terrorism.”

Prime minister David Cameron announced an extra £12bn boost to the ministry of defence and reduce its employees by 30 per cent.

The PM also said 10,000 troops could be deployed in the UK in the event of a Paris-style attack after talks with French President Francois Hollande.

“Today’s announcements underline how committed we are to the long-term future of Britain.

“While Labour are a threat to national security, it is only the Conservatives who are safeguarding our nation’s future by ensuring our Armed Forces and security agencies have what they need to keep us safe.”

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