Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Dan Jarvis Named Defence Secretary Amid Funding Crisis and Resignations

6/13/2026

37 5

Summary

Story summary

Dan Jarvis was appointed Defence Secretary of the United Kingdom after John Healey resigned.
Senior military leaders warned privately that the defence funding settlement is insufficient and could cause officer resignations.
John Healey said the Defence Investment Plan is not fit for purpose and raises risk to personnel.
A YouGov poll found 45 % of Britons think John Healey was right to resign over defence spending.

History

Historical Context

Britain’s defence policy shifted from the 1998 Strategic Defence Review, led by George Robertson, to the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review that set new spending priorities. The latest appointment of Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary revives debate over funding, as officials warn the current settlement could repeat the attrition seen after the 2010 review.

1 of 2

Story summary

Dan Jarvis was appointed Defence Secretary of the United Kingdom after John Healey resigned.
Senior military leaders warned privately that the defence funding settlement is insufficient and could cause officer resignations.
John Healey said the Defence Investment Plan is not fit for purpose and raises risk to personnel.
A YouGov poll found 45 % of Britons think John Healey was right to resign over defence spending.

1 / 2