Amid growing concerns about European security, a former Ministry of Defence official has stated that Britain should focus on strengthening its volunteer forces rather than considering the reintroduction of conscription.
Security Concerns Spark Conscription Debate
Fears about compulsory military service have intensified after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia could launch another major war against Europe in 2029 or 2030. While the UK government has previously ruled out mobilising civilians to bolster the Armed Forces, Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden acknowledged that future decisions might be necessary to address the continent's 'new reality'.
Paul O'Neill, the former head of people strategy for the Ministry of Defence, has provided crucial context to this discussion. He told Metro he remains 'extremely confident' that British citizens would not be drafted as part of any ceasefire agreement between Ukraine and Russia that involved NATO peacekeeping troops.
When Conscription Might Actually Be Considered
According to O'Neill, the reintroduction of conscription would only become likely under one specific circumstance: a sustained war where NATO seeks to endure against Russia, with nuclear weapons completely off the table.
'The argument for conscription is that it provides human mass in long-term conflicts,' O'Neill explained. However, he immediately questioned this approach by highlighting NATO's existing advantages: 'The number of troops NATO can provide through regular and reserve units is massively more than Russia without needing conscription.'
O'Neill revealed this numerical advantage is substantial, with NATO forces numbering between five and six times more than Vladimir Putin's military capabilities. 'In which case, what do you need conscription for?' he asked rhetorically. 'We are better off building up our volunteer forces. We don't have to match Russia's numbers because of NATO.'
The Volunteer Reserve Solution
O'Neill proposed what he considers a 'better solution' to Britain's defence needs. Instead of compulsory service, he advocates recruiting greater numbers of volunteer reserves. This approach allows the Armed Forces to train and develop personnel over longer periods, resulting in higher quality troops who actually want to serve.
The former MoD strategist expressed scepticism about conscription being a viable option, describing it as a 'logistical nightmare'. He outlined the practical challenges: every conscript would need weapons, uniforms, accommodation and training - with training likely being shorter due to urgent mobilisation needs.
O'Neill also highlighted the economic impact, noting that conscription would likely lead to lower productivity across the country.
Public opinion appears divided on the matter. An Ipsos poll conducted earlier this year revealed that 48% of Britons stated they would never be willing to take up arms for the country under any circumstances, while 35% said there are circumstances where they would serve.
The survey revealed significant demographic variations, with 42% of 18-34 year-olds expressing willingness to serve compared to just 28% of 35-54 year-olds. A substantial gender divide also emerged, with 49% of men saying they would be willing to serve compared to only 21% of women.
