UK can no longer economically compete with top countries
a realisation that the UK can no longer economically compete with top countries, military experts told Business Insider. Dr Jan Honig, a senior lecturer in war studies at King's College London said it is "highly ironic" that Brexit could mean the UK can longer fund its defence. Julian Lewis, Chair of the UK's defence committee told BI he is now "concerned about whether Theresa May will be able to give defence the money it needs." Theresa May this week asked Britain's defence secretary to justify the UK's role as a "tier one" military power, causing dismay in the Ministry of Defence. Underlying the statement is a realisation that the UK can no longer economically compete with top powers, defence experts told Business Insider. "It's a reflection of our economic status - times are tough," said Tim Ripley, a defence analyst, adding: "It's all about money.. if you don't have money you can't spend it....