Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has spoken to NATO General Secretary Mark Rutte as international concern swirls about the state of Britain’s armed forces following John Healey’s shock resignation as Defence Secretary on Thursday. Mr Healey’s exit has fuelled worries that Britain will not provide the necessary funds to modernise and expand the armed forces to deter threats.

A Downing Street spokesman described the conversation with the NATO boss, saying: “Both agreed that in the face of shared and evolving threats, Allies must step up together – strengthening collective defence and delivering more, faster. The Prime Minister updated on plans for the Defence Investment Plan, underlining his commitment to publish it ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara.

“The NATO Secretary General welcomed the UK’s increased investment in defence as an important contribution to the Alliance and to meeting the threats we face. The Prime Minister also reiterated his commitment to reaching 3% of GDP on defence in the next Parliament, making clear that national security will remain the Government’s top priority, backed by the hard‑edged decisions needed to deliver it. They agreed to stay in close contact.”

The call follows US Under-Secretary of Defence Elbridge Colby publicly urging Britain to deliver “urgency, scale, and determination”.

He said: “There is again a great need for more British military strength at this critical time.”