Make our Navy great again...to stop Nelson spinning in his grave

AS POLITICIANS, former admirals, generals and commanders debate the future funding of the UK's Armed Forces, one thing is abundantly clear — we must ensure our Royal Navy is once again made great. Our country is the world's greatest ever seagoing nation. It is the least we deserve.

- Duncan Barkes

Great Britain gave the world Admiral Viscount Horatio Nelson, not only one of the greatest ever Englishmen, but an inspiring leader, naval strategist and exemplary seaman who is still hugely admired centuries after his death.

And it is only proper that we do right by our Royal Navy.

This is by no means an attack on the ratings and ranks within the Forces. These are brave and committed personnel who are often away from their families for months at a time to keep our country secure. They deserve all our gratitude.

And it is worth remembering that much of their work goes unreported, especially those who are patrolling the waters in our submarine fleet. We must also acknowledge the commitment and graft of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary which provides tremendous operational and logistical support to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.

HOWEVER, successive governments of the past 30 years have salami-sliced defence spending leaving the Royal Navy in a now perilous state.

President Donald Trump's recent treatment of Ukraine has done one good thing: it has focused and sharpened minds across Europe on the issue of defence spending.