Brits who avoid WW3 conscription call-up to army could be socially shamed

History expert Professor Joshua Bilton warns that Britons who avoid a possible future draft could face social and employment consequences, though he says most conscripts would serve in industry, civil defence or support roles rather than on the frontline.

Britons who try to avoid a potential military draft could face serious backlash from their peers if conscription returned to the UK, history expert Professor Joshua Bilton has told the Daily Star, as fears grow that global conflicts could push the country towards mandatory service.

Bilton said refusal “could certainly affect their social and cultural standing and might even have an impact on employment post-conflict.”

“But I think it depends on what segments of society are talking about, as society is not monolithic, and while some will accept it and say good for you, others may shame them,” he said. “It is far more nuanced than many acknowledge, as it depends greatly on how family and friends feel about a forthcoming war.”

He doubted most conscripts would be sent to the frontline. “Most people will not end up in the armed forces; most people will go into industry or civil defence or other roles and sectors that support the war effort,” he said.

“If we look at both world wars, only about 25% of the male population of a certain age went into the armed forces, and even then it was often in non-combatant or support roles.”