I believe that Britain’s foreign policy must always be driven by our national interest. In an increasingly unsafe world, we need to prioritise our sovereignty, security and alliances. This is why it is vital we raise defence spending to 3% of GDP. Only with a strong military can we defend our interests at home and abroad.
Unlike the Labour Party – who by their own admission prioritise welfare over national security – the Conservatives take a strong stance on Britain’s defence. There is no social security without national security. With China threatening Taiwan, Russia continuing its barbaric invasion of Ukraine and the Middle East unstable as ever, it is crucial that the UK has the ability to stand up for its interests and safeguard our prosperity. That begins at home.
I was proud to see Kemi Badenoch reveal a fully funded plan to raise our defence spending to meet these challenges. This allows us to have a voice at the table when it comes to the most important issues of the day.
In government, I supported every measure to aid our Ukrainian allies to repel Russia’s invasion. I also backed the Conservative government’s strong but realistic approach to dealing with China, expanding trade where it benefits us both but calling out their human rights violations and repression of democracy in Hong Kong. On the Middle East, I supported our ally Israel in the wake of the terrible October 7th attacks while calling for more aid for Gaza.
With the USA and Iran trading blows in the Strait of Hormuz as recently as today, Britain needs to play its role in the world to defend our national interest. That starts with the courage to make the necessary trade-offs that raise defence spending and strengthen our alliances. While Labour continues with their gesture politics and Reform cannot even appoint a foreign affairs or defence spokesperson, the Conservatives have done the work to ensure that we maintain our sovereignty. Even in opposition, we have forced the government to stop its £35bn surrender of the Chagos Islands and opposed China’s “super embassy” in London. I will continue to support a foreign policy that creates a more prosperous and secure Britain.