Speech delivered to RUSI Conference on Thu 27th Nov 2008

(check against delivery)

When rebuilding a consensus where do we start?

Indeed, was there ever a consensus over Britain’s defence policy? And is it possible?

I would like to say yes, but that is dependent on everyone agreeing on my point of view.

However, as you who engage with politics and politicians on a regular basis can testify, consensus is usually an alien concept in the corridors of Westminster, and in the departments of Whitehall.

A rarity that is often lauded and seldom achieved.

The British political system and culture is antagonistic. Wholesale change would be welcome but until it comes, the checks and balances of the current set-up demand robust argument. Read more »

Commenting on the Armed Forces manning figures published today, Liberal Democrat Shadow Defence Secretary, Nick Harvey said:
“These figures confirm that there is still a yawning recruitment gap in the British Army.
“The continuing decline in the number of regular Army troops should be of grave concern to the Government. Read more »