National service??

Every so often this idea raises its hoary old head and every so often it is shoved back in its box!

To be honest, I would like to strangle the MP who came up with this idea.

Get yer hands off my grandsons, mate!!! No effing way!

It's a way of massaging the youth unemployment figures. I bet they'll be counted as working. Will they get paid? What happens if they get a job half way through the year? Why would the armed forces want kids for a year? What would they do with them?

As one who did National Serevice, 2 years with the colours and 3 years with the TA it might be of some good if it is in a military type organisation, where you don't answer back or have the decision whether you carry out the assigned task. That does not mean you can't show initive; quite the reverse. It would only have any effect if it is applied to all; with only the medically unfit excused. Many of those who join up today often find their home and family in the armed forces. They lead a structured life, knowing who their friends are, and with Leadership they can rely on. These same people get lost again when they are demobbed back into a world where the boundaries are blurred. Many opinions are expressed on this subject, but unfortunately often by those who have never worn the Queens uniform and that does make a difference to your understanding of the subject.

And what would the 'punishent' be for those who failed to comply? The can hardly send them all to prison! I expect it would be the threat of 'withdrawal of benefits' again...

I am against it and agree very difficult to enforce. Plus it most certaintly would be socially devisive

I think it would be difficult to enforce also,but if it did go ahead I hope that those engaged in it have the opportunity to opt out with no problems if they where offered employment elsewhere on a permanent basis.

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