People could face sanctions for refusing national service

Rishi Sunak has said he could take drivers’ licences and bank accounts off 18-year-olds if they refuse to take part in his mandatory national service.

- ARCHIE MITCHELL

The prime minister has so far failed to say how he will force young people to participate in the scheme, which would see them volunteer with community groups or join the armed forces.

And, pressed by BBC Question Time presenter Fiona Bruce last night, Mr Sunak suggested the government will consider stopping young people having access to finance or drivers’ licences.

The PM said there are “all sorts of things” countries across Europe do to ensure young people take part in mandatory national service.

“Whether that is looking at driving licences, or their access to finance or all sorts of other things, that’s the right thing to do,” Mr Sunak said.