Jacko et al,
I think that we are getting the cart before the horse in this argument. Rather than increasing spending when we cannot really afford it why not reduce our commitments. I am thinking Iraq, Afghanistan and the Balkans for starters. We need to be realistic as to who and what we are. We are not an imperial power anymore. Lets be realistic about are fighting weight.
I am certain this will not be a popular idea but neither is placing the troops in harms way under equipped.
Cheers
BHR