Questions arise over enforcement and funding of Rishi Sunak’s national service plan | World News

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s proposal to revive national service for young Britons has sparked controversy and debate over its funding and enforcement. The £2.5 billion plan, which would compel 18-year-olds into military or community service, has raised questions about how the program will be implemented.

While Sunak’s announcement made headlines across the UK, his home secretary, James Cleverly, admitted that those who choose to skip out on the national service won’t face criminal charges. This revelation has led to concerns about the effectiveness of enforcing the program if the Conservatives were to win the upcoming general election on July 4.

Opposition parties, such as Labour, have criticized the proposal as a “desperate” move that could divert funds from disadvantaged communities. Labour’s would-be chancellor of the exchequer, Rachel Reeves, dismissed the idea as a gimmick with questionable financial backing.

Sunak’s decision to push for national service is seen as an attempt to regain support from right-wing parties and boost the Conservatives’ standing in the polls. However, the campaign got off to a rocky start, with Sunak facing challenges during his election announcement and criticism from protesters.

The proposed national service mandate would require 18-year-olds to choose between military or cyberdefense service for a year or volunteer in their community on weekends for a year. The plan aims to address concerns about Britain’s military readiness and align the UK with countries that have similar mandatory service programs.

Despite initial backlash, Sunak remains determined to push forward with the national service proposal, citing the need to provide opportunities for young people and strengthen societal unity. The funding for the program would come from a crackdown on tax avoidance and funds redirected from the European Union after Brexit.

As the debate over national service continues, the upcoming general election will be a crucial test for Sunak and the Conservative Party’s campaign strategy. With opposition parties and critics scrutinizing the proposal, the outcome of the election will determine the future of the national service program in the UK.