Under a new plan posed by the Conservatives, all those aged 18 would have to complete either a year in the military or volunteer in the local community – and the Royal Family is no exception.
It means children within the Royal Family, including Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six, would have to complete National Service.
66.6 percent (2,304) of readers think the three royal children should be made to carry out National Service, 29.9 percent (1,033) think they should not, and only 3.5 percent (120) say they ‘don’t know’.
Express reader, LawrenceDavies, said: “I wouldn’t ask anyone to be forced into national service but I’d expect a dutiful heir or heiress to volunteer if they personally supported service, like both princes did. It may only be a nod, but as a royal they set an example.”
James1977 wrote: “If the general public are to be called up then yes, the kids should be too and anyone of fighting age and fitness.”
Whereas neo_wales believed the Royal Family already worked hard outside of this extra duty: “A year of national service? The working Royals are committed to a lifetime of service to the nation.”
Reader Cadfael wrote: “The likelihood of George and Louie doing National Service – if it comes in – is a no-brainer. All the Royal men join the services at some point in their lives.”
Whereas another reader had a broad-minded approach: “I’m sure the little ones when old enough would do their duty with pride, their parents have instilled in them integrity fairness and love for their country.”
As well as the Prince and Princess of Wales’s children, some of their cousins would be expected to take part – such as Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie’s children and Prince Edward’s 16-year-old son, James, Earl of Wessex.
Speaking about the move, Mr Sunak told The Sunday Telegraph: “This is a great country but generations of young people have not had the opportunities or experience they deserve and there are forces trying to divide our society in this increasingly uncertain world.
“I have a clear plan to address this and secure our future. I will bring in a new version of National Service to create a shared sense of purpose among our young people and a renewed sense of pride in our country.
“This new, mandatory National Service will provide life-changing opportunities for our young people, offering them the chance to learn real-world skills, do new things and contribute to their community and our country.”
