National Service will train youngsters in skills our predecessors took for granted

NATIONAL Service is a great idea.

It exalts the idea of giving something back. It gives people a chance to be part of something bigger.

Covid showed there was no shortage of those ready to help a crisis.

But opportunities are scarce, especially for youngsters who are not qualified for teaching or health roles.

It will train youngsters in skills our predecessors took for granted.

It’s not about stripping a rifle or polishing boots. It’s about self-reliance, camaraderie and teamwork.

Those that choose the military route will learn how to cope when the power is out and the wi-fi is down.

The skills and confidence they learn will help them get better jobs and lead better lives.

National Service lets the country build the structures it would need for mass conscription if the flag went up for all-out war.

Ukraine has shown us — and our generals have warned us — that if Britain fought a state-on-state war of survival, the professional Army would wear out fast.

Our best chance of victory would be calling up reserves and using professionals to train the volunteers.

It would also solve the Forces’ recruitment crisis.

The Army, Navy and RAF have struggled to fill their vacancies.

National service would return the Armed Forces to the heart of British life, where they rightfully belong.