(Brian Neyra contributed to this report)

The Conservative proposal for compulsory military training or community service faces significant opposition from young people, posing a potential hurdle in the upcoming U.K. elections. A recent survey shows that 73% of students feel their views are undervalued by politicians, and with 89% registered to vote and 87% intending to do so, their discontent could critically impact election outcomes. To address this, the Conservatives might consider more progressive policies, such as the legalization of recreational marijuana. While medicinal marijuana has been legal since 2018, the U.K. lags behind many regions that have embraced broader legalization. Adopting such a policy could resonate with younger voters and mitigate the backlash against compulsory service. The issue underscores the importance of engaging with and valuing the perspectives of the younger electorate, whose priorities could significantly shape the political landscape.