§ Lord Taylor of Gryfeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have any plans to alter the minimum age of engagement and enlistment into the armed services. [HL4606]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanRecruits may join the Armed Forces from the age of 16 provided they have completed their compulsory secondary education. Volunteers under 18 are only recruited with parental consent and we ensure that all recruits fully understand their military obligations prior to enlistment. This policy accords with international standards laid down in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and International Labour Organisation Convention 182. Accordingly we have no plans to alter our recruitment policy.