The head of the British Army has sparked debate over national service after warning that a 'citizen army' would be required to fight a future war with a country like Russia. Chief of the General Staff General Patrick Saunders said preparing for a potential land war must be a 'whole-of-nation' undertaking.
Speaking at the International Armored Vehicles conference in London, Saunders argued that while the army should aim for 120,000 troops within three years, this is insufficient. 'Taking preparatory steps to enable placing our societies on a war footing when needed are now not merely desirable but essential,' he said.
Saunders, who is due to leave his post this year, pointed to Ukraine as an example, stating that 'regular armies start wars; citizen armies win them.' His comments come amid ongoing tensions with Russia and increased defence spending discussions.
However, the government has confirmed it has no plans to reintroduce conscription. The debate continues over whether the UK should follow countries like Greece, Denmark, and Sweden in implementing national service, or if such measures are outdated in 2024.
