- Plans for Britain's Defence Readiness Bill, designed to prepare industries and critical infrastructure for war, are reportedly delayed until next year.
- The delay raises concerns about the UK's defence capabilities amid global instability, including the war in Iran and threats from US President Donald Trump to withdraw from Nato.
- Labour MP Tan Dhesi warned that the repeated delays risk "sending damaging signals to adversaries and allies" and urged the Ministry of Defence to act faster.
- This follows a warning from General Sir Richard Barrons, a former top military commander, that the British army is severely depleted and can only make a "very small contribution".
- A government spokesperson said that national security is their priority, citing increased defence spending to ensure the UK can respond to threats.
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