Grant Shapps wants the PM to commit 2.5% on defence spending

Is higher spending a magic bullet for the UK defence? Is it the answer to the question? Find out in the latest Todays Big Question,/todays-big-questions, breaking news, comment, reviews and features from the experts at The Week.

Grant Shapps accused of 'cheating' over claims defence spending is up. Tory former defence minister Mark Francois said Mr Shapps was counting military aid donated to Ukraine as funding for defence at home. Mr Francois said he was counting aid given to Ukraine to boost defence spending.

Grant Shapps heaps pressure on PM to commit 2.5% on defence spending. Growing security threat posed by nations such as Russia, China and Iran. PM under intense pressure to boost military spending amid growing security threat from Russia, Iran and China. Grant Shappapp: Government needs to spend more than 2% more on defence.

Shapps wants Government to raise amount to 3pc of GDP moving from ‘post-war to pre-war’ phase. Shapps calls for defence spend increase in a ‘more dangerous world’ Defence Secretary calls for increase in'more dangerous' world.

Grant Shapps calls for UK defence spending to rise to 3% of GDP. Defence secretary also wants an overhaul of recruitment, including an end to certain medical requirements. Shapps also wants a lifting of the ban on soldiers growing beards and a lift of beards.