Defence of the Realm
Core Principles
Defence is one of the few legitimate core functions of the minarchist state. Britain, as a maritime trading nation surrounded by sea, must maintain a strong, credible defence capability focused on naval power projection, territorial integrity, and alliance commitments.
All defence spending will be fixed and denominated in troy ounces of gold to prevent inflation and political manipulation of budgets.
Budget Structure (Fixed in Gold)
The total defence budget is fixed at a level informed by historical British spending and the NATO 2% guideline, then rounded up for strategic margin. It is allocated with clear priority:
- Royal Navy — Largest share (Senior Service and foundation of British power projection)
- British Army — Second priority
- Royal Air Force — Third priority
- Reserves / Territorial Army — Fourth
- Cadets & Youth Training — Modest dedicated allocation
- National Service — Separate fixed gold budget (see below)
Exact figures will be set during implementation based on current gold prices and strategic threat assessment, with periodic review only under the Jubilee process.
National Service Funding Mechanism
The National Service budget is fixed in perpetuity in troy ounces of gold. As the number of volunteers rises, the per-person budget is automatically stretched thinner. As numbers fall, conditions and remuneration improve.
This creates a natural market-like adjustment: poor conditions deter volunteers (reducing costs), while strong demand for service improves conditions (increasing costs). It prevents open-ended spending while maintaining quality.
Strategic Priorities
- Protection of sea lanes and Exclusive Economic Zone
- Deterrence against major state actors
- Support for NATO and key alliances
- Homeland defence and civil resilience
- Power projection capability via the Royal Navy
The Goal
A professional, well-equipped, and fiscally disciplined armed forces capable of defending British interests and contributing meaningfully to alliances — funded sustainably through gold-anchored budgets and supported by a responsible, service-oriented citizenry.