The UK Conservative Party’s recently announced plan to reintroduce national service for young people has been met with criticism from various sources. The Daily Mirror states that the scheme would “cost billions” and that a “leaked paper failed to rule out jailing those not signing up.” The Guardian quotes former chief of the naval staff, Adm Lord West, who described the plan as “bonkers” and added that implementing it would divert money crucial for defence. The Daily Telegraph reports that even royal children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis – would be expected to participate in the programme with little possibility for exemptions. Despite this, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak is intent on moving ahead with the plans.
According to the Financial Times, Sunak said that he wishes to ensure that the scheme allows young people “can get the most” out of it, and is exploring ways to achieve this. The Daily Mail reports that Sunak has pledged that national service would “open doors for teenagers,” and he is reportedly “fighting back” after the announcement was widely criticised. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps has also stepped up to defend the plan, stating in the Daily Express that it would “toughen up” British youth and increase the country’s “resilience.” Labour has also revealed its plans for rebuilding the country, with plans to rely on private finance to fund a ten-year strategy that includes significant housing, road, and railway developments.
Should the Labour Party win the next election, they would also conduct a “100-day review of all the threats facing Britain,” according to The Times. Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the country requires “clear, sharp leadership and direction” to stay ahead of its adversaries. Finally, the Daily Star predicts “12 hours of rain” on the upcoming bank holiday, along with football celebrations for both Manchester United and Manchester City, which were featured prominently on the front page
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