A war vs the war...
Despite the unbelievable sacrifice going on in foreign fields, it could potentially be said that the outcome of the current fight will not determine the long term future of the UK (other than putting politicians off getting involved in scuffles we cannot afford and are best to avoid on the far side of the world in future).
The same cant be said about a nuclear armed Iran, or a potential fight with the BRIC nations over resources. Harsh? Maybe. But thats the way I see it. We cannot allow the short term nature of current conflict (asymmetric warfare) dull our more expensive traditional warfighting experience.
Perhaps we should consider axe-ing the welfare state before defence of the realm?