"War is an armed conflict between the armed forces of states, or between governmental forces and armed groups that are organized under a certain command structure and have the capacity to sustain military operations, or between such organized groups." - (C) Wikipedia.
The UK's approach to war has significantly changed since its pre-war position. This pertains to the First and Second world wars that inevitably drew us into conflict. The response of the UK was due to immediate need, and led by Sir Winston Churchill was a part of a political and military response to a front set up by the Nazi's in Germany as well as later in Europe as its doctrine unfolded.
The history of the British Army is long, vast, and distinguished but its numerous campaigns have come under recent scrutiny due to discussions of politics over history. It's also come about because of a necessary ongoing review of military conduct during its campaigns. This has led in part to constitutional overhaul to a formal declaration of war whether it be in defence at home or intervention overseas.
In recent political history Prime Minister's have had to more frequently consider the involvement of the UK in war because of these changes. A standard set by Churchill has transmuted the past legislative framework to include the opinions of elected political heads of the nation by rote.
It now follows that a Prime Minister decides the use of a nuclear deterrent and also sorts out his or her working relationships with relevant sections of the Army. It has to happen following an election because of a belief in the UK in continuity but also democratic accountability. It must be up to the will of the people to elect a new leader, and to also introduce a new set of circumstances if, and where, needed.
Posted: 29 September 2024.