Manifesto tracker

Britain reconnected

All Mission pledges

  • Britain reconnected, Defence, Defence, Policy area

A Military Strategic Headquarters will be established in the first week of the 2024-29 Parliament (July 2024).

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Establish a Military Strategic Headquarters in the first week of the 2024-29 Parliament.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > The UK government would establish a Military Strategic Headquarters in the Indo-Pacific to enhance its geopolitical influence in a region marked by growing tensions, particularly with China and North Korea. This move aligns the UK with other nations, such as France, which already maintains a military presence in the area, thereby increasing the UK’s ability to project power globally. It reflects the government’s commitment to progressive realism, a foreign policy approach that emphasizes the use of soft power and strategic partnerships in global affairs. What Success Means > Success would mean the UK having a stronger presence and influence in the Indo-Pacific, which would improve its ability to respond to regional security challenges and deepen ties with key allies. Although it may not directly impact the average British citizen, the establishment of this headquarters would bolster the UK’s global standing and strategic relationships, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining international security and reinforcing its role as a key player on the world stage.
  • Britain reconnected, Defence, Defence, Policy area

A new Armed Forces Covenant will be brought fully into law with measures to improve the treatment and lives of members and families of the Armed Forces.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Fully implement the Armed Forces Covenant.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > The UK government would increase support for veterans to ensure their specific needs are met, aligning the country with best practices seen in nations like Australia. By providing comprehensive services such as mental health support, housing assistance, and job placement programs, the government aims to improve veterans’ transition from military to civilian life. This initiative addresses issues like veteran homelessness and ensures that those who have served the country receive the care and support they deserve. What Success Means > Success would be seen in a noticeable improvement in the quality of life for veterans, with better access to mental health care, housing, and employment opportunities. A successful program would reduce homelessness among veterans and help them reintegrate into civilian life more smoothly. This would also strengthen public support for the government, as providing adequate care for those who have fought for the country is a widely popular and important policy. Ultimately, success would mean veterans feeling valued and well-supported, leading to improved well-being and social outcomes.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

A new Armed Forces Covenant will be brought fully into law with measures to improve the treatment and lives of members and families of the Armed Forces.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

The Armed Forces Covenant must be implemented into law.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > Fully implementing the Armed Forces Covenant into law would ensure that serving personnel, veterans, and their families are not disadvantaged in accessing public services. This would mirror the US GI Bill of Rights, which provides comprehensive benefits to veterans. What Success Means > Success would lead to better support for Armed Forces communities, improving their quality of life and ensuring they receive the respect and care they deserve. It would also enhance recruitment and retention in the Armed Forces. However, it is necessary to consider burdens such as an increase in bureaucracy and sugnificant financial costs. Setting high expectations may lead to dissatisfaction if all provisions cannot be met effectively. Currently 1/3rd f serviceman are estiamted to live in substandard accomadation.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

A new Military Strategic Headquarters and a National Armaments Director will be created by the new Governmen to help define the direction of strategy for HM Armed Forces and to oversee the increase in the procurement and manufacure of armaments for HM Armed Forces going forwards.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Establish a Military Strategic Headquarters in the first week of the 2024-29 Parliament and establish/appoint a National Armaments Director.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Establishing a centralized military strategic headquarters and a National Armaments Director would create a more cohesive defense policy and procurement strategy in the UK. This policy aims to enhance national security and streamline defense capabilities, ensuring the UK is prepared for modern threats. This centralized approach is akin to models seen in countries like France, which has a centralized defense procurement agency, and the US, where a strong defense headquarters ensures coordinated military operations. This policy could lead to improved efficiency in defense spending, greater strategic clarity, and better alignment with NATO and allied defense objectives.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Business and Trade, Policy area

A new partnership with the EU will be sought to specifically target existing issues as percieved by the Government, including prevent unnecessary border checks to help tackle increases in the cost of food; to help touring artists travel for work more easily; and to secure a mutual recognition agreement for professional qualifications to help open up markets for UK service exporters.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Department for Business and Trade
Jonathan Reynolds

Commitment

An agreement/agreements to prevent unnecessary vetinary border checks and help tackle the cost of food, help British touring artists, and secure a mutual recognition agreement for professional qualifications to help open up markets for UK service exporters must be in negotiation, agreed or implemented.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > A veterinary agreement with the EU would help prevent border checks on agricultural goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, easing post-Brexit trade frictions. Switzerland, which has a similar veterinary agreement with the EU, has successfully minimized border checks, facilitating smoother trade. What Success Means > Success would mean reduced trade barriers, lower costs for businesses and consumers, and better UK-EU relations. It would also ensure a more seamless flow of goods, particularly food, which is crucial for the UK economy. Goods exports to the EU are still below pre-pandemic and pre-Brexit levels. In 2023, they were 11% lower than in 2019 when adjusted for inflation.An increase in trade would benefit all parties involved.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

A new right to consular assistance (receive support from their government) from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office will be created for people experiencing ‘human rights violations’ in any recognised overseas country.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

A right to UK consular assistance must be created for all affected by or who purport to be affected by human rights violations overseas.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Introducing a new right to consular assistance for cases involving human rights violations aims to protect UK nationals abroad and uphold international human rights standards. This policy would enhance the UK’s diplomatic capacity and commitment to its citizens, also the speed of efficient intervention; akin to practices in Canada and several European countries. It could improve the UK’s reputation as a defender of human rights globally.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Business and Trade, Policy area

A new strategic partnership will be sought by HM Government with India, including a free trade agreement, as well as deepening co-operation in areas like security, education, technology and climate change.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Department for Business and Trade
Jonathan Reynolds

Commitment

New treaty, security arrangement, trade deal, partnership, etc. covering trade, security, education, technology and climate change signed with India.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Seeking a new strategic partnership with India, including a free trade agreement, would strengthen economic ties with one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies. This partnership would include deepened cooperation in security, education, technology, and climate change, aligning the UK with India’s rising global influence. Such an agreement would likely enhance bilateral trade and investment flows, akin to Australia’s recent trade agreements with India. This policy aims to boost economic growth and build strategic alliances in the Indo-Pacific region, where geopolitical competition is intensifying.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Business and Trade, Policy area

A new strategy/framework will be published to detail the growing political and economic importance of African countries to Britain and her interests, and how Britain will seek to partner and trade with countries on the African contitnent.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Department for Business and Trade
Jonathan Reynolds

Commitment

Develop a new approach to foster long-term mutual benefits with African nations, focusing on economic opportunities. Initaly this is expected as supporting the free trade zone of AFTZ and perhaps more represtnation to the Pan african summits.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Recognizing the growing importance of African countries and delivering a new approach to the continent involves increasing diplomatic, economic, and developmental engagement. This policy reflects a broader understanding of Africa’s rising geopolitical and economic significance. The UK’s approach could mirror France’s evolving policy in Africa, focusing on sustainable development, security, and trade partnerships. This shift would help the UK align with global trends of increased engagement with African nations and expand its influence in a rapidly changing region.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Business and Trade, Policy area

A new trade strategy will be published by HM Government to detail Britain’s new priorities when negotiating trade agreements with foreign countries and economic groups.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Department for Business and Trade
Jonathan Reynolds

Commitment

New Trade Strategy published. With a plan of doubling our current direct free trade access.? check

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Publishing a trade strategy would provide clarity on the UK’s international trade priorities post-Brexit (also the access UK business need to international markets). It would outline key sectors for export growth, strategies for negotiating trade deals, and align trade with broader foreign policy goals. This is crucial for ensuring the UK remains competitive on the global stage, particularly with the EU, US, and emerging markets. A coherent trade strategy could help the UK maintain strong economic relationships worldwide and attract inward investment. In turn, promoting the highest standards when it comes to food production.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

A Strategic Defence Review will be conducted between July 2024 and July 2025 in order to evaluate the changing threats facing the United Kingdom, with the published document detailing the measures and changes needed to face them.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Conduct a Strategic Defence and Security Review within the first year of the 2024-29 Parliament.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > A Strategic Defence Review would reassess the UK’s defense needs in the face of evolving global threats. Regular defense reviews, like those conducted by the US or Australia, are crucial for ensuring military readiness and capability. What Success Means > Success would result in a modern, well-equipped military that is prepared for proactive planning and future challenges, with resources allocated efficiently to address the most pressing threats. The RAF and Royal Navy have exceeded their budgets for aircraft and ships, forcing the Army to make reductions. Its current strength is below 73,000, the lowest since the Napoleonic era, and it is seen as lacking in critical areas like artillery and air defense. It would also improve defense policy alignment with allies. Although, the process might become politically contentious, influencing the objectivity of the review and leading to potential conflicts among parties.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

An independent Armed Forces Commissioner will be created with the remit to investigate, adjudicate and rule on cases referred to them to help improve the standards, treatment, and quality of life for members of HM Armed Forces.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

An independent Armed Forces Commissioner must be established with the explicit aim of improving service life .

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > An Independent Armed Forces Commissioner would oversee service standards and advocate for service members’ welfare, similar to the Australian Defence Ombudsman. This role would ensure greater transparency and accountability in the Armed Forces. What Success Means > Success would mean improved service conditions, higher morale, and a more responsive support system for military personnel. It would also help address systemic issues more effectively. Addiotionally, this would help address the specific challenges faced by female service memebrs and hold accountability for harassment and discrimination.
  • Britain reconnected, Defence, Defence, Policy area

An independent Armed Forces Commissioner will be established to look after the welfare and interests of members of the Armed Forces.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Establish an independent Armed Forces Commissioner.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > The UK government would legislate to establish an independent Armed Forces Commissioner to enhance accountability and oversight within the military. This role, similar to military ombudsmen in countries like Canada, would provide a formal and impartial avenue for service personnel to raise grievances and concerns. The move aims to improve transparency, build trust, and ensure that the armed forces remain responsive to the needs of those who serve. What Success Means > Success would mean the establishment of a robust, independent office that effectively addresses complaints and enhances accountability within the military. Service personnel would feel more confident in raising concerns, knowing they have a neutral body to oversee their issues. This would lead to improved morale, greater transparency, and strengthened trust between the armed forces and the public. Ultimately, the presence of an independent commissioner would help ensure the armed forces operate with integrity and are held to high standards.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

At an unspecified future date when the Chancellor determines the UK national finances to permit, UK spending on Foreign Aid will return to its former limit of 0.7% of GDP – a target which had been scrapped by the previous Government – meaning more Aid money will be spent overseas (international aid efforts).

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

0.7% of GDP to be spent on Foreign Aid/development spending as soon as possible.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Restoring development spending to 0.7% of gross national income reflects a commitment to global development goals and international solidarity. This policy, following a cut during recent economic constraints, would align the UK with its previous commitments and enhance its soft power, improving UK’s reputation as a leader in development, and improve international relations. Countries like Germany, Sweden, and Norway maintain similar commitments, demonstrating their dedication to global development and humanitarian aid.
  • Britain reconnected, Defence, Defence, Policy area

Britain will spend a minimum of 2% of GDP on Defence and maintain our nuclear deterrent.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Fully implementing Labour’s Nuclear Deterrent Triple Lock, consisting of the construction of four new nuclear submarines in Barrow-in-Furness, maintaining Britain’s continuous at-sea deterrent, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and the delivery of all future upgrades needed for those submarines. https > //labour.org.uk/updates/stories/labours-defence-policy-how-we-will-provide-strong-national-defence-for-britain/

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > The UK government would fully implement Labour’s Nuclear Deterrent commitment to maintain its position as one of the nine nuclear-armed states, ensuring that the country remains a central player in global nuclear deterrence. This would also allow the UK to continue contributing to NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangements, reinforcing its security and influence within the alliance. The decision aligns with the government’s stance on national defense, while also contrasting with the more pacifist position of previous leaders like Jeremy Corbyn. What Success Means > Success would mean the UK maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent, ensuring national security and contributing to global stability through its role in NATO’s nuclear strategy. The UK’s status as a nuclear power would be preserved, reinforcing its position on the global stage. While the policy may draw criticism from nuclear disarmament advocates, it would be seen as a continuation of a strong defense posture, with the government signaling its readiness to use nuclear weapons if necessary for national security, in contrast to more cautious approaches in the past.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

Existing sanctions on Russian state and non-state assets will continue and be strengthened to freeze further assets, which will then be repurposed to be used to financially support Ukraine, which is a continuation of what has already been occuring with assets frozen, especially in the EU.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

Sanctions on Russia must be fully enforced and strengthened to sieze, freeze and repurpose overseas Russian state assets to be used to increase support for Ukraine for the duration of the ongoing Russo-Ukraine War.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Working with allies to enable the seizure and repurposing of frozen Russian state assets to support Ukraine is aimed at ensuring that Russia pays for the reconstruction of Ukraine. This policy would involve legal and diplomatic efforts to shift these assets towards rebuilding efforts, similar to some initiatives in Canada and EU countries. This policy reinforces the UK’s position in supporting Ukraine and demonstrates a commitment to economic justice and reparations for conflict-related damage.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

HM Government are publicly committing to their intention to support an independent Palestinian state to neighbour the existing state of Israel, and will work to facilitate this outcome at an unspecified point in the future.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

A Palestinian state must be recognised by HM Government.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

HM Government will attempt to negotiate a new UK-EU security pact to cooperate and share resources in matters of security.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

A new UK-EU security pact must be in negotiation, agreed or implemented Conduct a Strategic Defence and Security Review within the first year of the 2024-29 Parliament.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > An ambitious UK-EU security pact would foster deeper cooperation on defense, intelligence, and counter-terrorism, areas where collaboration is crucial. This would mirror Norway’s close security cooperation with the EU despite being outside the bloc, maintaining strong ties on key security issues. What Success Means > Success would mean stronger security cooperation, improved intelligence sharing, and enhanced capacity to address global threats. It would also reinforce the UK’s role as a key player in European security. The EU’s decisions on third-country participation in PESCO (Permanent Structured Cooperation) and the EDF (European Defense Fund) reflect tensions over UK involvement, impacting EU defense research and collaboration.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

HM Government will play a leading role in calling for a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression, presumably at the Hague, into the Russian agression that led to its military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and perhaps also into its annexation of Crimea and support of Donbass separatists from 2014.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

HM Government must officially call/support calls for a Specia Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression, and officially support efforts to hold Russia accountable for the ongoing Russo-Ukraine War.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Backing calls for a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression to hold Putin’s Russia accountable reflects a commitment to international law and human rights. This policy aligns with efforts by European countries and international bodies like the EU and the United Nations to seek justice for war crimes and aggression in Ukraine. If implemented, the UK would reinforce its stance as a defender of international law and a strong ally to Ukraine. This could bolster the UK’s diplomatic position on the global stage and support broader Western efforts to deter future aggression.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

HM Government will push for all hostages being held by Hamas to be released.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

All living and dead Israeli, UK National and foreign hostages releaed by Hamas from Gaza. As of 28 of August 2024, 117 hostages had been returned alive to Israel.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Recognizing a Palestinian state as part of a renewed peace process for a two-state solution would be a significant policy shift. This move would align the UK with countries like Sweden, which have formally recognized Palestine, and signal a commitment to international law and diplomacy. This policy could help the UK position itself as a mediator in the Middle East, promoting stability and peace in a historically volatile region.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

HM Government will push for Hamas and the Israeli Goevernment to negitiate and agree to an immediate ceasefire to end the active hostilities between the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and fighters aligned with Hamas within Gaza and the Middle East more widely to end the ongoing conflict.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

HM Government must take every legal step to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the Israel-Hamas War (2023-Present).

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Pushing for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the upholding of international law, and a rapid increase of aid into Gaza highlights Labour’s commitment to human rights and peacebuilding. This policy aligns with international calls from the UN and EU to address humanitarian crises in conflict zones. It underscores the UK’s role in advocating for a diplomatic resolution and humanitarian support in conflicts, balancing its strategic interests with ethical imperatives.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

HM Government will seek to negotiate new bilateral agreements with Britain’s existing partners in the Joint Expeditionary Force, which consists specific of NATO countries including Britain, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Netherlands.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Renew existing or create new bilateral agreements with Joint Expeditionary Force partners must be declared. Strengthen NATO and British forces.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > Enhancing cooperation with Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) partners, including Nordic and Baltic states, would strengthen regional defense and security. The JEF, led by the UK, already exemplifies how regional military alliances can enhance strategic capabilities without being part of larger bodies like NATO. What Success Means > Success would mean enhanced military readiness and interoperability with key allies, improved regional security, and stronger deterrence against potential threats, particularly in Northern Europe. Sweden and Finland have joined a UK-led high-readiness force designed to address global threats and respond to crises.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Energy and Net Zero, Policy area

HM Government will seek to work directly with the governments of Pakistan and Bangladesh, and the COP30 annual climate summit hosts, Brazil, to help prevent, reducd and reverse man-made climate change to reduce atmosphereic pollution and global warming.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
Ed Miliband

Commitment

HM Government must work faster with foreign countries to reduce British and global greenhouse gas emmissions to reduce them from the pre-July 2024 levels by the end of the 2024-29 Government than had previously been forecast.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Labour’s commitment to working faster with international partners, especially those at the forefront of the climate crisis, emphasizes a collaborative approach to global climate challenges. By partnering with countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the COP30 hosts, Brazil, the UK would aim to lead by example in addressing climate change impacts. This would strengthen the UK’s global standing as a climate leader and support vulnerable nations in their transition to sustainable energy and adaptation measures.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

HM Government will play a leading role in publishing a concrete and clear path for Ukraine to join the existing NATO alliance at an unspecified point in the future.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

UK must contribute to the NATO publication of an official path to NATO membership.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Playing a leading role in providing Ukraine with a clear path to NATO membership would represent a significant shift in the UK’s foreign policy. This move would support Ukraine’s defense against future aggression and integrate it more closely with Western security structures. However, it would also require careful navigation of diplomatic relationships with other NATO members and a broader consensus. Countries like the US, Poland, and the Baltic states have shown strong support for this, while others remain cautious. For the UK, this policy aligns with its historical role in NATO but also demands robust diplomatic engagement.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

HM Government will propose and attempt to create a ‘Clean Power Alliance’ of international partners to cooperate on preventing, reducing and reversing man-made climate change to reduce atmosphereic pollution and global warming.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

A coalition of foreign countries must be brought together to create a Clean Power Alliance (or similar body under another name). Tasks include delivering lower energy bills while enhancing clean eenrgy supply chains. A clear decsion on imported Carbon costs is still yet to be taken.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Creating a Clean Power Alliance would bring together a coalition of countries leading in climate action. This policy aims to facilitate international collaboration on clean energy technologies, research, and development. Such an alliance could position the UK as a global hub for green innovation and investment, similar to the International Solar Alliance led by India and France. This initiative would enhance the UK’s influence in global climate negotiations and promote sustainable economic growth. It is important to consider other consequences such as increasing public spending for industry and energy transition, and equity concerns (ensuring that all countries benefit, especially the developing ones).
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

In the Israel-Hamas War, and in the Middle-East more widely, the UK will support the upholding of all relevant international laws (enforcing international laws) where they are being broken or at risk of being broken, with sanctions and measures possibly being taken to punish those violating them (possibly including limiting arms sales to Israel).

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

HM Government must abide fully with all international law passed by recognised international bodies and courts, and hold any/all foreign governments accountable for not abiding fully with all international laws.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Implementing this approach could position the UK as a astrong advocate for international law and human rights, improving its global diplomatic standing (more assertive foreign policy actions, influence in peace negotiations, and greater scruity for its arms trade practices), in turn fostering stronger relationships with allies (such as Cnada).
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Business and Trade, Policy area

New strategic, military, political and/or economic partnerships will be negotiated with existing partners across the Gulf to tackle issues affecting British and global interests, including regional security, energy and trade and investment.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Department for Business and Trade
Jonathan Reynolds

Commitment

New and enhanced treaties, security arrangements, trade deals, partnerships, etc. signed with countries in the Gulf region.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Deepening cooperation with Gulf partners would focus on areas like regional security, energy, and trade. Given the strategic importance of the Gulf region for global energy supply and security, this policy would ensure continued engagement and collaboration. The UK could play a role similar to that of the US and EU in balancing economic interests with human rights concerns. This approach would help the UK secure energy supplies, diversify trade, and maintain a strong presence in a geopolitically vital region.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

The amount of UK Aid being delivered into the Gaza Strip will increase compared with its pre-July 2024 levels.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

Recorded UK aid to Gaza must increase compared with pre-July 2024.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Increasing UK aid to the Gaza Strip could improve humanitarian conditions, support recovery and development efforts, and enhance the UK’s reputation as a committed partner in adressing crises. It might also help foster stability in the region.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Foreign and Commonwealth, Policy area

The Government will work more closely with the Independent Commission for Aid Impact to create tighter and stricter rules to prevent UK Aid being misused or wasted, and to better ensure it is used as ‘effectively’ as possible.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
David Lammy

Commitment

Independent Commission for AID Impact’s highest standards must be supplied to all UK AID spending, and new measures created to ensure increases in resultant development, effectiveness, transparency and scrutiny.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Working with the Independent Commission for Aid Impact to ensure high standards for aid spending emphasizes transparency, effectiveness, and accountability. This approach aligns with practices in other countries, like Canada and the Netherlands, where aid effectiveness and governance are prioritized. Ensuring that UK aid reaches those in need and delivers measurable outcomes would improve both the impact and public perception of the UK’s development and foreign assistance. It might foster greater public trust in aid programs, improve relationships wuth recepient countries, and ensure resources are used efficiently.
  • Britain reconnected, Britain Reconnected, Defence, Policy area

Visa fees for non-UK national veterans who have served for four or more years with HM Armed Forces, and their dependents, will be scrapped (removed) to enable them to settle in the United Kingdom more easily and freely.

Manifesto Section

Policy Area

Government Department

Accountable Minister

Ministry of Defence
John Healey

Commitment

Visa fees must be scrapped for all non-UK veterans who have served for four or more years, and for all their dependents.

What Does It Mean For the UK?

Why > Scrapping visa fees for non-UK veterans who have served for four or more years, and their dependents, recognizes their contribution to the UK. Countries like Canada and Australia have similar policies, offering citizenship or residency to those who serve in their military forces. What Success Means > Success would mean a fairer immigration policy for those who have served, encouraging greater diversity and inclusion within the Armed Forces. It would also show the UK’s commitment to honoring the service and sacrifices of all its military personnel. Im addition, this might mean a step forward to support for non-UK veterans living in the UK who do not have regularised their immigration status.