The UK’s former Defence Secretary and ex-NATO chief, Lord Robertson, has issued a stark warning to British citizens, urging them to shift from a “peacetime mode” and prepare for the possibility of war. Speaking at the Wigtown Book Festival, Robertson emphasized the need for UK households to stockpile essential items in anticipation of potential disruptions.
Lord Robertson, who served as the UK’s Defence Secretary from 1997 to 1999 before becoming NATO Secretary General until 2003, described the British public as “under-prepared, under-insured, under attack and not safe.” He called for an information campaign to raise awareness about the risks and dangers facing the nation.
Preparing for Disruptions
According to The Scotsman, Robertson highlighted the UK’s vulnerability to disruptions in electricity supply, a scenario he believes would be unsettling for a population accustomed to modern comforts. He advised households to stock up on items such as candles, torches with fresh batteries, and water containers.
He also recommended keeping a battery-operated radio on hand to stay informed about global developments in the event of a conflict. “Have you all got torches with live batteries in your house? Have you a radio with batteries in it and candles for when the electricity supply is cut off? Have you got containers for water, which you could produce?” Robertson asked attendees.
“We need to get off a peacetime mode of thinking and move in an agile way. We have to accept a degree of responsibility, over time, for doing that. Having everything plugged into electricity means we are going to be blank in terms of information.” – Lord Robertson
New Threats and Cybersecurity Concerns
Robertson’s warning comes amid increasing concerns about cybersecurity threats and “grey zone” attacks, which are designed to disrupt countries without constituting outright acts of war. He pointed to recent cyber attacks on businesses as evidence that the UK is already “under daily attack from aggressive acts.”
Other experts have echoed Robertson’s concerns, suggesting that Russia is effectively waging war on the UK through various means, including propaganda and sabotage. These actions, while not overtly aggressive, indicate hostile intentions towards the UK.
Historical Context and Expert Opinions
The concept of preparing for wartime disruptions is not new. During the Cold War, the UK government advised citizens to maintain emergency supplies in case of nuclear conflict. However, the nature of threats has evolved, with cyber warfare and information manipulation now posing significant risks.
Experts in international relations and security have noted that modern conflicts often occur in the “grey zone,” where traditional definitions of war do not apply. This makes it challenging for governments to respond effectively and for citizens to understand the implications.
By the Numbers: A 2022 report by the UK National Cyber Security Centre noted a 20% increase in cyber incidents targeting critical infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
The call to action from Lord Robertson underscores the importance of preparedness in an increasingly uncertain world. As geopolitical tensions rise and new forms of warfare emerge, individuals and governments alike must adapt to these challenges.
While the prospect of war may seem distant to many, the reality of modern threats requires vigilance and proactive measures. The UK government and its citizens must work together to ensure resilience against potential disruptions, whether they stem from cyber attacks or other forms of aggression.
As the global landscape continues to evolve, staying informed and prepared will be crucial in safeguarding national security and maintaining stability.
