This is a testing time for UK Defence. First, we face a changing world in which the risks to our security and interests are diverse, complex and characterised by uncertainty. Second, our Armed Forces are engaged in a vital struggle in Afghanistan to ensure that trans-national terrorists cannot find safe and unhindered sanctuary as they did there before 9/11. This must remain the top priority for defence. Third, the national finances are severely constrained as we act to reduce the huge budget deficit left by the previous Government which threatens the health of our economy. We are seizing this opportunity to realign our defence and security capabilities with our foreign policy. The Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) currently underway will enable us to revitalise relationships with our traditional allies and forge new relationships with emerging nations. It is an opportunity to dispense with the conceptual and physical legacies from the past that still persist. Pursuing the national interest and protecting national security requires the application of all levers of power -diplomacy, development, economic strength, trade, cultural influence, and military capability. That is why we have brought together the three policy pillars of defence, diplomacy and development in our new National Security Council which is the hub from which the SDSR is being co-ordinated.
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