Defence Secretary John Healey MP Mansion House Defence and Security Lecture 2025
In his Mansion House Defence and Security Lecture, the UK Defence Secretary outlined a “New Deal for European Security” in response to what he called a new era of global instability and rising state threats. He praised the City of London’s support for the Armed Forces and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to those who serve. Addressing global tensions—from the Russia-Ukraine war to conflicts in the Middle East and Asia—he stressed that Britain must adapt to an age of hard power, strong alliances, and rapid technological change. The UK will increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, aiming for 5% by 2035, and has launched the largest defence investment and pay rise in decades. The government will boost military aid to Ukraine, strengthen NATO partnerships, expand drone and AI innovation, and rebuild Britain’s defence industry as a driver of economic growth. The speech framed defence not as one of many priorities, but as the foundation of national security and prosperity in an increasingly dangerous world.