New Poll Reveals How Many People Would Be Willing to Fight for Britain if World War Three Breaks Out
As tensions rise around the world, concerns are growing about whether Britain is ready for a possible war and how the public might help defend the country.
A Daily Express reader poll asked people whether they would fight for Britain. Of the 2,850 people who responded, 1,081, or 38%, said yes. Another 1,660, or 58%, said no, while 109, or 4%, were unsure. The results reflect the views of those who took part, rather than the whole British population.
Lord Dannatt, the former head of the British Army, said the Government should clearly explain the threats facing the country. He believes this would help people understand why more money needs to be spent on defence.
A separate Ipsos poll found that 29% of Britons thought the armed forces were in good condition, while 36% thought they were in bad condition. These findings come as the Government faces growing pressure to make defence spending a priority.
Ministers have also discussed a Home Defence Programme to help Britain prepare for emergencies and possible conflict. The programme would bring together civilian and military support, helping the country understand what assistance would be needed during a war.
Former Cabinet Office minister Dan Jarvis told Parliament that the plans would help identify the military’s needs and work out how different roles could be filled during a conflict. The programme is still being developed.
The war in Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East have added to concerns about Britain’s security. Military leaders have warned that preparing the country could involve more than strengthening the armed forces.
Earlier this year, a British Army general warned that the UK was not ready for war and suggested that conscription might become necessary. However, that warning does not mean compulsory military service has been introduced.
The head of MI5 has also warned that keeping Britain safe now involves more than protecting its borders. He described the country as entering a new period of national security challenges.
General Sir Roly Walker, the head of the British Army, told Sky News that every citizen would be asked to make sacrifices and contribute to the country’s defence. That could include support beyond serving in the military.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron said he had ordered emergency defence measures to protect France’s essential infrastructure against possible Russian hybrid attacks. Such attacks can involve cyberattacks and sabotage, rather than direct military action.
