Britain proposes creating a register of citizens willing to volunteer in case of war
The United Kingdom's Liberal Democrats have called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to create a special "emergency register" in which citizens could voluntarily sign up in case of war.
As LBC reports, the plan is to form a network of civilian volunteers whom the authorities could call upon in the event of an attack on the United Kingdom. The party believes that the country needs to organize in advance those people who are ready to provide assistance in an emergency situation.
The Liberal Democrats' defense spokesperson stated that the United Kingdom "urgently" needs such a network, and that politicians should speak more directly with the population about the threats the country could face.
As an example, the initiators of the proposal cited Finland, where mechanisms exist for involving citizens in ensuring the state's readiness in crisis situations. At the same time, the specific duties of the people who would be included in the British register have not yet been determined.
The Liberal Democrats also proposed creating a separate post of secretary of state for civil readiness.
The initiative came amid intensifying discussion about Europe's security and a possible escalation in relations with Russia. NATO representatives say there are plans to defend the alliance's eastern flank in the event of an attack.
