UK MPs Push for Ethical Defense Investment Amid US Aid Halt

Over 100 Labour MPs and peers are urging British banks to classify defense investments as ethical to support Ukraine and bolster the UK's defense capabilities. The group criticized current environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards for excluding defense investments, arguing that investing in military support for Ukraine is highly ethical. This push comes amid increased European defense spending following Donald Trump's suspension of US military aid to Ukraine. Labour leaders, including Keir Starmer, have committed to raising the UK’s defense spending to 2.5% of GDP. They argue that financial institutions need to remove barriers hindering defense investment and support companies ready to innovate in military technology. Despite the critique of ESG frameworks, the MPs affirm their overall support for the model, promoting a balance between ethical investment and defense needs.