Defence Secretary John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns have both quit over the government’s yet to be published Defence Investment Plan (DIP).
In his letter Mr Healey told the Prime Minister Keir Starmer the DIP financial settlement fell well short of what was required for defence and the country at a dangerous time. He said he could not accept a DIP that did not give the Forces the resources they needed.
After yesterday’s announcement AFF Chief Executive Collette Musgrave said: “We have been pushing for the DIP to be released as it may affect the government’s previously stated commitments to the long-term improvement of the SFA estate, so the continued delay is disappointing.”
Ex-Royal Marine Mr Carns, who resigned hours later, said the DIP was not built for the threat the country faced and the level of investment was inadequate for the task. His letter highlighted frustration with delays in decisions.
Two ministerial aides also resigned.
Former Army officer Dan Jarvis has been appointed the new Defence Secretary.
Picture shows John Healey speaking at virtual meeting of Defence Ministers in May to discuss the Strait of Hormuz Multinational Military Mission. Photographer: PO Phot Rory Arnold/UK MOD © Crown copyright 2026
PUBLISHED 12 JUNE 2026