Recent discussions on conscription emerged after General Sir Patrick Sanders raised concerns about the size of the British Armed Forces, emphasising the need for a citizen army.

General Sanders proposed expanding the forces to 120,000 within three years, citing the importance of citizen armies in wartime.

Despite tensions with Russia and China, the UK government clarified that conscription is not under consideration, emphasizing its commitment to voluntary military service.

British citizens took to social media to react to the possibility of being enlisted.

UK’s Sir Patrick Sanders brings up conscription

Recently, discussions about conscription have been raging on social media following General Sir Patrick Sanders’ cautionary remarks about the size of the British armed forces.

As soldiers from the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery engaged in physical training, the question of military strength came up. The state is concerned about the current state of the UK’s military readiness.

Sanders fears war with Russia

General Sanders mentioned in a Sky News interview that the need to train and equip a citizen army would possibly strengthen armed forces should a war with Russia begin. He further stated that the current path of having around 72,500 fully trained soldiers by 2025 is insufficient.

General Sanders proposes 120 000 citizen army

The chief proposed expanding the forces to 120,000 within three years. He further pointed out the importance of citizen armies in winning wars, as seen in the case of Ukraine. Despite his admission of the necessity, General Sanders stated that he was not in favour of conscription and suggested that UK volunteers could sign up for any potential land wars.

UK will currently not conscript

Ultimately, the UK government has clarified that conscription is not on the table. Per The Telegraph, Rishi Sunak’s official spokesman assured that military service would remain voluntary. Thus dismissing speculation about the UK’s readiness to confront Russia. The spokesperson emphasized that hypothetical scenarios discussing conflict are not helpful to constructive dialogue.

Citizens in the UK react with TikTok videos

Most citizens on the internet didn’t take the news well. See one post below:

Others take to tiktok to use humour. Accurately depicting the anxiety of receiving such news.