The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, says Wednesday's Budget will set out a path for defence spending to reach 3% of GDP by 2030, as well as 3.5% by 2035. BM Magazine reports that he confirmed both targets when asked directly on ITV's Good Morning Britain on 26 October.
Earlier reports of the interview carried only the 2035 end-point. A 2030 date for 3% cuts across the Guardian's report that no such date was expected at the Budget.
It also sits uneasily with what the Chancellor, John Healey, has said. BM Magazine says Healey has said the timetable would be set at next year's spending review. The Spectator reports he has said the money for 3% by 2030 will not be found until next autumn's spending review. City AM said on 27 October that Healey "has delayed a decision" on the 2030 goal.
Current plans fall short of the target. The OBR estimates that reaching 3% would need an extra £17.3bn in 2029-30. BM Magazine, citing a House of Commons Library briefing, says NATO-qualifying defence spending is expected to rise to 2.7% of GDP in 2027-28 and stay there for two years, with no date for 3.5%.
Burnham gave no cost or source of funding for the path.