The c-word – conscription – once a dirty word in Britain, is back in debate as France announced the reintroduction of military service today.

This has triggered a question: could the UK be next to join the bandwagon in Europe amid the growing threat from Russia?

Since 1963, compulsory military service has been a relic in the country – an artifact of a different era. Attitudes towards the practice have also dropped

A return would be a major political step – and one that is unlikely to happen under the current Labour government.

But as Europe rearms at a pace unseen since the Cold War, some see it as an answer to the UK’s needs in preparation for long war in the next decade.

Why is France bringing back military service?

Having a major European heavyweight – and one that is across the C

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