Andy Burnham, the Labour leader for Greater Manchester, has pledged to meet NATO’s 3.5 % defence‑spending target by 2035, but he stopped short of committing to the 3 % goal set for 2030. The decision reflects a balance between the city’s fiscal constraints and the need to support national security commitments. Burnham’s stance signals a cautious approach to defence funding, prioritising long‑term investment over short‑term targets. This move could influence how other UK regions align their defence budgets with NATO expectations.
Andy Burnham has committed to reaching the Nato target of 3.5% spending by 2035, but not 3% by 2030.
