Pressure on Starmer over defence spending

SIR Keir Starmer insists plans to increase defence spending are "cast iron" - but refused to set a date for the pledge as he headed to a Nato summit.

- Sam Lister

In his first international trip just days into the new job, the Prime Minister flew to Washington where he will meet US President Joe Biden for the first time.

Ahead of the visit, Sir announced Keir he was launching a major review of the global threats Britain faces.

The PM said: "There is no more important duty for me as Prime Minister than keeping the people of our country safe.

"At a time when we face multiple threats at home and abroad, we must make sure we are ready to defend ourselves.

"That's why I have immediately ordered a root and branch review that will secure Britain's defences for the future.

Working with our most impor tant partners around the world, our Strategic Defence Review will make sure the UK is sending a clear message to those who seek to undermine peace and democracy - you will not succeed."

The PM's first international trip will be closely watched for his interactions with world leaders.

Sir Keir's decision to take his new Europe Minister Nick Thomas Symonds is likely to raise concerns among Brexiteers about Labour's intentions over future relations with Brussels.

Downing Street was unable to say when or how often a minister holding the role had attended Nato before.

Sir Keir will attend a glitzy dinner in the White House hosted by President Biden and his wife Jill for all of the leaders.

The new PM's wife Victoria, who has so far tried to maintain a low profile, is also attending and joined her husband on the Government plane out last night.