Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defends plan for teenagers to do National Service, facing criticism and support from within the Tory party. The policy aims to make society more cohesive and strengthen the UK's defense through military or cyber defense force service or unpaid community work for 18-year-olds.
Key Points
Initiative led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to introduce National Service for 18-year-olds
Policy includes mandatory military or cyber defense force service or unpaid community work
Mixed reactions within the Tory party and from former military chiefs
Details to be decided by a Royal Commission
Critics question the viability and effectiveness of the proposal
Pros
Aims to make society more cohesive
Strengthens the UK's defense
Provides young people with skills and opportunities
Cons
Criticism from within Tory ranks
Concerns about the impact on teenagers and the military
Potential negative consequences on the party's election prospects