Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 56 of the Concluding Observations on the combined sixth and seventh periodic reports of the UK to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, published on 22 June 2023, whether he plans to accept the recommendation that an enlisted child should not be subject to a longer minimum service period than an enlisted adult.

Under 18 recruits are able to leave up to the day before their 18^th birthday via a variety of mechanisms such as Discharge As Of Right or Discharge Under 18. Prior to their 18^th birthday, they make an informed choice as to whether to remain in service beyond this age. These rights are exclusive to those Under 18, providing additional safeguards appropriate to their age. Subsequent adult service is only committed to having completed this period of enhanced rights and having attained the age of 18. Individuals who decide to leave the Armed Forces are supported for up to two years post discharge to gain a route into further education, training or employment.