Political Fix Labour lambasted over defence
20 snips
Apr 17, 2026 
Stephen Bush, political columnist and Inside Politics writer, offers sharp takes on Starmer’s strategy. Jim Pickard, FT deputy political editor, examines government policy and the Mandelson vetting story. Robert Shrimsley, FT chief political commentator, analyses defence funding and political stakes. They discuss Lord Robertson’s critique of defence complacency, procurement battles, funding choices and looming local elections.
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Deadlock Between Treasury And MOD Needs PM Intervention
- Defence spending is stuck because the Treasury lacks money and the Prime Minister is not arbitrating the MOD vs Treasury row.
- Robert Shrimsley warns decades-long procurement disputes need PM-level decisions and clearer priorities now.
Both Sides Have Valid Points In Procurement Fight
- Both Treasury and the MOD are right: the MOD is under-resourced and the Treasury is frustrated by serial procurement failures.
- Stephen Bush says a functional response would be a reforming defence secretary plus PM forcing the Treasury to find money.
Changing Specs Drive Procurement Cost Inflation
- Defence procurement costs rise because long projects' specifications change with ministers and governments.
- Robert Shrimsley notes shifting requirements lengthen timelines and fuel spiralling budgets for jets and carriers.