In a scathing critique, the Labour Party has labelled Rishi Sunak as an “embattled football manager with no cash,” and highlighted that there are “101 holes” in his National Service plan. Jonathan Ashworth, the party’s election attack dog, has penned a letter to Tory Chair Richard Holden, requesting clarification on how the Conservatives intend to finance their flagship announcement.
The National Service plan, which proposes mandatory military service or commitment to monthly volunteering for every teenager, has faced criticism from the Labour Party. Rishi Sunak defended the proposal by asserting that it would help “keep kids out of trouble,” but the Tories received backlash over the financial feasibility of the plan when a minister evaded questions about potential penalties for non-compliance from parents.
Labour has raised concerns about potential legal action against the public, the application of military law to recruits, and the compulsory involvement of prominent teenagers such as Nobel Prize Winner Malala Yousafzai. This criticism follows previous opposition to the notion of reinstating National Service from numerous government ministers, including Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer.
The Tories have stated their intention to reallocate funds from the levelling-up budget to cover the estimated minimum cost of £2.5 billion annually for the new National Service plans. Nevertheless, they have not disclosed how they plan to secure the remaining funds necessary for the programme.
Jonathan Ashworth has pointed out the financial disparities in the National Service policy and urged the Conservatives to provide transparent details regarding the funding and execution of the plan. In his letter to Tory Chair Richard Holden, Ashworth highlighted the flaws in the estimated cost and the absence of clarity on funding sources.
A Labour source expressed their doubt about the feasibility of the Tory proposal, asserting that Rishi Sunak’s lack of attention to financial detail undermines his credibility, particularly in light of his advocacy for extending math education. The source stressed the importance of the Conservatives addressing these critical financial questions if they wish to be taken seriously.
The Conservative Party has been approached for comment but has not yet responded to the Labour Party’s allegations.
In conclusion, the Labour Party has taken aim at Rishi Sunak’s National Service plan, scrutinizing its financial viability and demanding clarity on funding sources. As the political discourse intensifies, the Conservatives will need to address these concerns to uphold the credibility of their proposals.