SIR Keir Starmer will mark VE Day vowing to harness Britain’s increased defence spending — as he insists World War Two is not “just history”.
The PM will reflect on current threats as he honours the 80th anniversary of the end of the conflict.
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In a major speech today, he will say: “Britain’s victory was not just a victory for Britain.
“It was a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil.
“Now, as you know, there are people who would happily do likewise today.”
He has separately already highlighted the sight of Ukrainian soldiers taking part in Monday’s VE Day parade in London as a reminder peace should not be taken for granted.
He told war history podcast We Have Ways Of Making You Talk: “The reminder with the Ukrainian contingent in the procession, that the idea that this was all just history and it doesn’t matter now, somehow is completely wrong.”
Meanwhile, speaking at the London Defence Conference today, Sir Keir will present the defence sector as a driver of national renewal, creating high-skilled roles while safeguarding the country
He will announce: “Our task now is to seize the defence dividend — felt directly in the pockets of working people, rebuilding our industrial base and creating the jobs of the future.”
The speech will also include the unveiling of a £563million contract to Rolls-Royce for the upkeep of the UK’s Typhoon fighter jet fleet.
The investment will support hundreds of jobs in Bristol and other regions.
It follows last week’s launch of the StormShroud drones — cutting-edge British tech that uses electronic warfare to protect RAF pilots.
PM Sir Keir will note that Britain is now spending more on defence than at any time since the Cold War.
Calling for unity, he wants “a national effort”.
He will add: “A time for the state, business and society to join hands, in pursuit of the security of the nation and the prosperity of its people.”