Britain’s defences need strong leadership - Philip Dunne writes for the South Shropshire/Bridgnorth Journal
"As the country prepares to go to the polls, we all need to reflect on what we should expect of those we elect to become the Government of the day. As the first duty of any government, keeping our country safe, is of paramount importance – so voters have a right to expect clarity.
Having spent almost four years at the Ministry of Defence under the previous administration, working as Minister for Defence Procurement, I still take a keen interest in Britain’s defence policy and how it will affect not only my constituents, but also the wider UK.
This is why I am so troubled by the position of the Labour Party on defence, or rather its complete lack of credibility on this vital issue. As I write, chaos best describes what has emanated from the Labour front bench in the past few days, demonstrating they have no clear policy for defence of the realm.
I respect those who are consistent pacifists on principle, eschewing violence of any form. But being practical, this is not a quality suited to the Office of Prime Minister. This week we have heard the Leader of the Opposition refuse to commit to our nuclear deterrent, state he would not authorise a strike against the leader of so-called ISIS if he had the chance, and would suspend airstrikes against extremists. But only hours after saying Labour would review renewal of our Trident weapon system, his Shadow Defence Minister, Nia Griffith, said it was still Labour’s policy to renew our nuclear deterrent.
This weak and confused approach is deeply troubling. Britain’s enemies will be relishing the lack of any clear defence policy from a party that aspires to enter government.
Britain’s defence and security capabilities are not something we can turn on and off at a moment’s notice. Security threats can be highly unpredictable, as unfortunately we see increasingly around us. Years of planning and constant vigilance are required to maintain our defence and security.
So a crucial question voters will face on 8th June is who they believe will be willing and able to take the steps necessary to protect our country, against any adversary. The choice is stark: a stable government under the strong leadership of Theresa May, or a weak coalition of Labour, LibDems, and the SNP, under the nonsensical leadership of Jeremy Corbyn."