Tories’ £2bn defence row

MINISTERS are still deadlocked over defence spending beyond the current pledge to lift it by 0.5% above inflation.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson wants to fill a £2billion gap for equipment with a proper pay rise for troops. Chancellor Philip Hammond is resisting, sources say.

Williamson yesterday released a vague Commons statement in place of promised review findings.

Labour’s Nia Griffith branded it “disappointing”.