Labour Investing in Britain’s Renewal: A Spending Review for Security, Health, and Prosperity – Scott Dickinson MBE

The latest Spending Review is more than just a balance sheet exercise—it's a blueprint for Britain's renewal. After years of tough fiscal decisions and bold reforms, the government is now laying the foundations for long-term growth, security, and opportunity across the country. From safer streets to modern hospitals and greener energy, this is about delivering real change for real people.

A Nation Made Safer

Security is the bedrock of prosperity. That’s why this review puts a strong focus on defence, borders, and energy security. Defence spending will rise to 2.6% of GDP by April 2027, marking the largest sustained increase since the Cold War. Intelligence services also receive a £2 billion uplift, and the new Border Security Command is being bolstered with an additional £280 million annually.

The costly use of hotels to house asylum seekers will be phased out, saving £1 billion a year. Simultaneously, energy security is getting a generational boost with £30 billion invested in nuclear power, including a major push behind Sizewell C, set to create over 10,000 jobs.

Health at the Heart of Renewal

Your health is a national priority. That's why this Spending Review includes the largest cash investment in the NHS in history. Real-terms spending on the NHS will rise 3% per year, with an extra £29 billion annually for day-to-day services and £4 billion in capital investment.

Technology, workforce expansion, and mental health support are front and centre. With a 50% increase in NHS tech funding, more training for GPs, and mental health teams in every school in England, the focus is firmly on delivering better, faster, more accessible care.

Growth That Reaches Everyone

To ensure families feel the benefits in their everyday lives, the government is making bold investments in infrastructure, housing, and jobs.

• £39 billion for affordable housing – the biggest investment in a generation.

• £15.6 billion for transport – better connecting towns and cities.

• £445 million for railways in Wales – boosting regional connectivity.

The future economy is also being built now, with:

• £22 billion for R&D,

• £2 billion for AI development,

• and £1.2 billion a year to upskill over a million young people.

Households will benefit directly from the extension of the £3 bus fare cap until 2027, the Warm Homes Plan to cut energy bills by up to £600, and the expansion of free school meals to over half a million more children.

Investing in Every Community

No region will be left behind. A new Green Book will guide fair investment across the country, and 350 communities will receive funding to revitalize parks, libraries, youth centres, and tackle local issues like graffiti and fly-tipping.

Devolved nations are also receiving historic levels of support, with record settlements for:

• Scotland: £52 billion

• Wales: £22.9 billion

• Northern Ireland: £19.8 billion

A Better, Fairer Britain

This Spending Review is a commitment to a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Britain. It’s a plan not just to recover—but to renew. Whether it's through better healthcare, more secure borders, or stronger communities, every investment is a step toward a future where you and your family are better off.

Cllr Scott Dickinson MBE - Leader Northumberland Labour