January 25th 2024.
Is it just me, or does the idea of conscription sound ridiculous? I mean, it's not like it's the 1930s anymore, right? National service ended decades ago and hasn't been brought back since. But, according to Gen Sir Patrick Sanders, if World War III breaks out and Britain finds itself at war with Russia, China, or Iran, the average civilian may be called upon to fight. This warning lines up with Nato's advice for its allies to take necessary actions against Vladimir Putin's forces. And let's be real, our military isn't what it used to be.
But don't just take my word for it, let's hear what other readers have to say about this issue and more. Share your thoughts in the comments!
So, this whole conscription thing. Apparently, the head of the Army, Gen Sir Patrick Sanders, believes that if there were to be a major war tomorrow, men and women should prepare to be called up to fight. And with the Armed Forces having been cut back since the 1980s, it's not hard to imagine conscription making a comeback. Just look at the recent conflict in Ukraine, where analysts estimate that Russia has suffered over 300,000 casualties.
But what's even more shocking is that the cutbacks continue, with Maidstone barracks set to close in 2029. This needs to stop now. We need to increase our Armed Forces before it's too late. It feels like we're living in the 1930s again. - Robert Boston, Kent
Now, it's time for Metro Talk - Have Your Say! Let us know your thoughts on this issue and more. Start a text with VIEWS followed by your comment, name and where you live to 65700. Standard network charges apply. You can also email us at mail@ukThe Agency Helpline for Views, Rush-Hour Crush and Good Deed Feed: 020 3615 0600.
But before you share your thoughts, let's take a look at some reader opinions.
"Conscription? Ridiculous." - Anonymous
"Gen Sir Patrick Sanders has made the ludicrous suggestion that Britain may need to reintroduce some form of conscription due to the 'threat' of Russia. Our Armed Forces already have enough challenges as it is." - Anonymous
"It'll be a while before the average Metro reader is called up." - Anonymous
"Did the General's statement just cause unnecessary panic? It's highly unlikely that ordinary Metro readers will be called up in the event of World War III. I'd suggest banning all service personnel from leaving the Armed Forces and recalling recent departees before considering conscription." - Anonymous
"Yes, we should bring back conscription, but in these 'woke' times, those called up would want to be wrapped in cotton wool, stay in bed until they feel like getting up, and whinge and cry about being in a war." - Peter, Coventry
"There's no chance of conscription happening in this country. It will be seen as a form of modern slavery and there will be countless lawsuits against the government under the Humans Right Act. Thanks, PC and woke brigade, for killing the Dunkirk spirit." - Tony M, Rochester
"As a member of Nato, Britain should not be fighting Russia alone. Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty states that if a Nato ally is attacked, every other member will consider it an attack against all and take necessary actions to assist. So why is this not being mentioned when discussing the size of our Army? And let's not forget, it wasn't long ago that we were saying a Russian conscript army was no match for our professional force." - T, By Text
It seems like opinions are divided on this issue. But let's move on to another topic - the possibility of the UK rejoining the EU.
"The UK is better in the EU - but it won't be easy to rejoin." - Anonymous
"HG's extremely condescending assumption that I believe we can simply 'rejoin' the EU is wrong. I know it will be a complex process, if it's even possible. But I stand by my belief that we were better off in the EU." - Sally Anne Smith, London
"Scott suggests that the sweary parrots at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park could be put to good use in parliament. But let's be real, they'd just turn into a bunch of self-serving liars, capable of saying little more than 'hear hear'!" - Dec, Essex
"Regarding the story about a book being returned to Manningtree Library after 44 years, I don't know what surprised me more - that there is a book called 'Great Prime Ministers', or that the library waived the £8.75 fine." - Sara, Cheltenham
"The Royal Mail could halve the number of days it delivers letters from six to three. But their problems are a result of former business secretary Vince Cable's privatisation in 2013. It's time to take it back into public ownership." - Fred, South-east London
"I've noticed the BBC constantly reminding us that their reporters are 'all across' everything - the weather, the action, the latest developments. I can only assume they'll be 'all across' the next general election when it comes around." - Michael, Chingford
And finally, we have some conflicting opinions on leaving a copy of Metro on public transport.
"I'd advise Simon not to leave his copy of Metro on the train. As much as I love reading it, it only adds to the litter and complaints about cleanliness." - Fred, Croydon
"As a railway employee, I agree with Fred. Leaving your copy of Metro just adds to the mess on public transport." - Anonymous
"I got stared down on the Tube for leaving my copy of Metro on a seat the other day. But I feel like it's a small way to spread some joy. So I say, leave your copy for someone else to enjoy!" - Maggie, Harrow
What are your thoughts on these issues? Have your say in the comments below!
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