RISHI Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer have gone to war — over who can provide the best help for our military heroes.
The PM and Labour chief outlined their positions on defence ahead of today’s Armed Forces Day.
In a key dividing line, Mr Sunak has vowed to spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence by 2030.
Sir Keir says he would match that only when economic conditions permit.
The PM has also signed up to the Veterans’ Pledge, and said he would keep the Office for Veterans’ Affairs and commission a review of the medical discharge process.
He pointed out that the Tories also oppose Labour’s plans to scrap the Northern Ireland Legacy Act, a move which could see veterans dragged through the courts.
The PM said: “The women and men who serve in our Armed Forces represent the very best of Britain.
“In an increasingly dangerous world, our servicemen and women play an ever more critical role in keeping us safe . . . we are firmly on their side.
“Sir Keir Starmer on the other hand can’t match our veterans’ pledges, protect old veterans from being hauled before juries nor back our defence spending increases.”
Meanwhile Sir Keir, who yesterday visited the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu temple in Kingsbury, North West London, has promised an Armed Forces commissioner to probe complaints about sub-standard housing and faulty kit.
He said: “Labour is deeply proud of our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families for the contribution they make to our country.
“Theirs is the ultimate public service and their professionalism and bravery is rightly respected across the world.”
