Four senior former officers of the British Army announced that the government needs to review its defense budget and improve protection for soldiers, demanding increased transparency and independent assessments. They pointed out that current spending does not provide real security for soldiers and affects their wellbeing. The meeting called for increased oversight and the involvement of independent experts in spending planning. Former General John Smith said, "We need a balanced approach between defense spending and welfare." He added that experts should be included in the decision-making process.
