Anthony Reuben

UK households pay higher electricity prices than many European countries due to wholesale gas setting market prices, the UK's heavy reliance on natural gas for power generation, and rising network and subsidy costs linked to expanding renewable energy infrastructure. Wholesale gas prices remain volatile, and investment in grid upgrades has increased household bills, though government policy aims to reduce future exposure to gas-driven price spikes. Analysts say shifting policy costs from bills to general taxation could further ease electricity costs.

UK defence spending is projected to reach 2.7% of GDP by 2027–28 and remain at that level through 2030, according to the Defence Investment Plan, falling short of the trajectory needed to meet long‑term commitments of 3% in the next parliament and NATO’s 3.5% target by 2035. The government has added £15bn to defence budgets over four years, an increase of £1.5bn relative to earlier drafts, though questions remain about an unconfirmed £28bn budget shortfall. Senior figures including John Healey and Rachel Reeves call for clearer timelines and plans to achieve the higher targets.