Rishi Sunak has said young people who serve with the military as part of his national service scheme will receive a “stipend” to help with living expenses.

The Conservatives have pledged that, if they win the general election, 18-year-olds will have to take part in a scheme involving military or civilian service. The party has also suggested that incentives for young people to take up 30,000 military places could include highlighting national service on Ucas applications and urging employers to favour those who complete the placement.