Inside Salisbury: Should we be making provisions for war?
A former Minister for Defence Veterans is encouraging Brits to stockpile tins
By Annette J Beveridge
SALISBURY feels far removed from any threats or war situations, yet, memories of Novichok and cyber-attacks remind us that the world is unsafe right now, and one former MP is suggesting people should stockpile tins - just in case.
Tobias Ellwood was the MP for Bournemouth East. He served in the Royal Green Jackets and chaired the Defence Select Committee for three years. He also became the Minister for Defence Veterans, Reserves and Personnel at the Ministry of Defence from 2017- 2019.
Recently, he warned UK households to stockpile tinned foods as the country is at risk of a ‘grey zone attack’ - a malicious activity that occurs between peace and war. It includes political meddling, economic coercion, and cyber threats.
In The House magazine on Politics Home, Ellwood warned that the UK is facing new threats from hostile actors that don't "begin and end with the military.” ‘Covert attacks’ to undermine the UK’s infrastructure or economy were possible. The emphasis is on preparation - food and emergency items to keep safe, warm and informed, for three days.
This is without any outside help from the Internet, water or power.
In 2024, the then Deputy Prime Minister, Oliver Dowden, had revealed a national ‘prepare’ website to help people cope in times of conflict, floods, cyber-attacks or power cuts, so this is not unusual. Bottled water and non-perishable foods were on the list along with torches, first-aid packs and wind-up or battery radios.
Food shortages are possible due to the risks of war as well as the economic chaos caused by the US trade wars. So, it makes sense to keep emergency supplies in the cupboard, but how serious is the risk?
Salisbury MP John Glen believes the UK always works on emergency preparedness plans.
He said: “We have seen many examples in recent times of how geopolitics can disrupt supply chains, and the effect that cyber attacks can have on websites and communications.
“I don’t know many people who don’t keep a torch at home in case of a power cut or an emergency kit in their car in case of a breakdown. Even when there is no specific threat, in the modern world, it is sensible for all of us to consider different eventualities and plan ahead – in our homes as well as at national level.”
Advice on the Government’s website is to stock up on bottled water - a minimum of three litres of drinking water per individual each day. But 10 litres is best as it may be needed for cooking. Advice also includes tinned meat, vegetables and fruit, as well as baby supplies and, if needed, pet food.
Are you concerned about the potential for food shortages or the impact of renewed war in the Middle East? Share your thoughts with us.
