Rishi Sunak justifies introducing national service for teenagers: ‘Democratic values under threat’

Holly Patrick

26 May 2024 at 4:21 am·1-min read

Rishi Sunak has explained the Conservatives’ justification for their plans to introduce National Service for 18-year-olds if they are voted back in at the 4 July general election.

Young people will be required to complete a full-time placement in the armed forces for 12 months or spend one weekend a month for a year “volunteering” in their community, the Tories said.

In a new video on Sunday, 26 May, the prime minister described how National Service would give teenagers “valuable skills” and “make our country more secure.”

“Britain today faces a future that is more dangerous and more divided,” he said.

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