British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak proposes reintroducing National Service for 18-year-olds in the UK, offering military or community participation.

The proposal faces criticism from former military leaders and Tory figures who argue the armed forces need more funding rather than untrained teenage volunteers.

Adm Alan West and Richard Dannatt described the plan as 'bonkers' and 'electoral opportunism,' voicing concerns about depleting the defence budget and lack of military consultation.

Former defence secretary Michael Portillo warned about increased public expenditure and potential damage to the Tories' reputation for fiscal responsibility.

Shadow defence secretary John Healey and former Labour defence minister Kevan Jones dismissed the proposal as undeliverable and expensive, estimating a cost of £2.5bn annually by the end of the decade.

Despite plans to fund the policy through tax avoidance crackdowns and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the initiative has drawn criticism for its practicality and motives.

Home Secretary James Cleverly clarified that non-compliance with the program will not result in jail time.

The announcement has reignited a national debate on the topic, with concerns about the Armed Forces' ability to implement the initiative effectively.