No more defence cuts

SIR – When it comes to ensuring that Britain’s defence budget is, at the very least, adequate for the task (which it has not been for a generation), I have often felt that the ideal Chancellor would be someone who had previously been Defence Secretary. Philip Hammond has certainly blown that theory out of the water.

However, a serving Chief of the General Staff has, at long last, felt able to speak out (report, January 22); and Gavin Williamson, the current Defence Secretary, is to be applauded for trying to secure a properly funded budget.

The straits in which Britain’s defences increasingly find themselves could, however, be solved at a stroke, either by diversion of funds from the hugely over-inflated foreign aid budget or, dare one say it, by replacing Mr Hammond with Mr Williamson. The fundamental point remains: compromise on defence and nothing else is secure. Philip J Ashe

Leeds, West Yorkshire

SIR – The relative triviality of Britain’s domestic political rivalries and preoccupations is highlighted by the growing international threat posed by Russia and China. The only available strategic response to this danger continues to be provided by Nato, of which the US remains the linchpin.

No effort should therefore be spared to strengthen our alliance with the US government, and in particular with Donald Trump. This is a president who is clearly capable of being swayed at a personal level, both positively and negatively. Regardless of any private reservations felt by Britain’s liberal establishment, Theresa May should extend the warmest and most sincere invitation to him to attend the forthcoming royal wedding, where he should be accorded full state honours.

Much greater issues may depend on forging a warm personal relationship with the leader of our closest ally than we currently envisage. Charles Jackson

Hyssington, Montgomeryshire