Our at-a-glance guide to the Conservative manifesto

After a positive pitch from Cameron that led on housing and employment, here is a fuller list of what the Tories are offering the public in May.

Michael Fallon MP: Our new triple lock to guarantee the size, shape and power of our armed forces

We will increase the defence budget by more than inflation; not reduce the size of the regular armed forces further, and replace the four existing Vanguard submarines.

Henry Hill: As electoral reality sinks in, Labour and the SNP prepare for a deal

Also: Alliance attacks unionist pact and bids for pro-Union voters; rocky start for Plaid Cymru’s campaign; and Northern Ireland awaits judgement in ‘gay cake’ case.

Harry Saville: The case for Trident

We need three, if not four, new Resolution-class ballistic missile submarines.

Bernard Jenkin MP: “There are no votes in defence.” Or so they say…

The two battered main parties would do well to speak honestly about the challenges and costs we face.