We would have no power or influence in the world. People like to say ‘negotiation’ is the key, but nobody will negotiate unless you have something to back yourself up. Why do you think we’re so desperate to continue with a nuclear deterrent and other nations are so keen to get nukes? Its to increase their power and influence in the world.
It’d be no fun being an irrelevant nation relying on the kindness of other nations to look after us. Why should they? Why should other nations deploy troops to support us? We only have allies in the world due to mutual benefit. and our military protects our interests and provides that stability and security so others can take us seriously. It is of utmost importance for a trading nation.
Forget Spain being our nice friendly allies. Spain would have already invaded Gibraltar militarily if it wasn’t for our military. A work colleague of mine is ex-forces and was stationed in Gibraltar when the Falklands kicked off to do just that as part of an increased deployment there to prevent a military invasion whilst our attentions and resources were focussed elsewhere, such was the certainly that Spain would take advantage and invade.
And given that the prime purpose of the government is to guarantee the safety and security of the nation and the people, how could they do that without a serious military force?