Badenoch attacks Burnham's defence record

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accuses PM Andy Burnham of avoiding difficult decisions on defence spending while Europe faces Russian threats.

The welfare versus warfare debate

Badenoch demands Burnham cut welfare to fund defence increases. Burnham said in September that national security cannot come at the expense of social security.

“national security could not come at the expense of social security”

Badenoch's blunt accusation

Badenoch told the Telegraph: "Our government is fiddling while Europe is at risk of burning." She said Burnham's stance sends a dangerous message heard in Moscow.

“Our government is fiddling while Europe is at risk of burning”

Military chiefs back Badenoch's warning

Admiral Lord West says Britain's military is in a parlous state. Lord Dannatt, former chief of general staff, accuses both Burnham and Chancellor John Healey of playing fast and loose with security.

“My bottom line is that Andy Burnham, and regretfully I would now add John Healey, are playing fast and loose with the nation's security”

UK's defence commitment and pressure

Britain has promised to commit three point five percent of national income to defence by twenty thirty-five under NATO pledge. Pressure grows on Healey to explain funding before next month's budget.

Tories propose housing benefit cap

Conservatives propose capping housing benefit to raise four billion pounds for defence spending. The party suggests some people would have to move somewhere cheaper.