Rishi Sunak Proposes Mandatory National Service for 18-Year-Olds

Rishi Sunak has proposed a mandatory national service for 18-year-olds to promote national pride. The scheme would include community service or selective military training, with non-criminal penalties for non-compliance. It aims to be fully implemented by the end of the next parliament, possibly as late as 2029.

Rishi Sunak has unveiled a new Conservative election plan which includes a mandatory national service for 18-year-olds if the party wins the general election on July 4.

The proposed scheme aims to promote a shared sense of purpose among young people and includes options for community service or a selective military training program.

While participation would be required by law, non-criminal sanctions would apply for non-compliance.

Approximately 775,000 18-year-olds in the UK could be affected.

Full implementation is aimed for the end of the next parliamentary term, potentially as late as 2029.