UK army chief says politicians to start ‘frank conversation’ with public to prepare for war | 16 Oct 2026 | The head of the army says the UK’s political leaders are about to start a “frank conversation” with the public about the need to prepare for war. General Sir Roly Walker said every citizen will be asked to make sacrifices and to play their part in the defence of the nation. He was speaking very bluntly to troops during a visit to Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire this week. The comments were captured on camera by British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS). “You didn’t know this, but our nation is going to need you,” the chief of the general staff told the group of around 700 soldiers. “Indeed, very soon, the political leaders of this country will start to have a frank conversation with the citizens of this country about just what is going on and where the risk lies.