Britain’s armed forces are in need of more funding, rather than relying on untrained teenage volunteers, according to former military leaders and Tory figures. The controversial election promise by Rishi Sunak to reintroduce military service for 18-year-olds was quickly discredited by army chiefs and a former Conservative defense secretary.
The proposal, which would mandate national service for young people, was criticized as “bonkers” by Adm Alan West and dismissed as electoral opportunism by Richard Dannatt. The plan was seen as a fiscal risk by Michael Portillo, raising concerns about the Conservative party’s reputation for financial responsibility.
The pushback against the national service proposal highlights broader issues with defense spending and recruiting in the UK. Shadow defense secretary John Healey emphasized the failures in defense over the past 14 years and pointed out the lack of consultation and funding for the plan.
Overall, the proposal faced criticism from multiple angles, with some questioning its practicality and cost, while others suggested alternative approaches to strengthening national security.