Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether under-18-year-old recruits in Army initial training are subject to staged exit restrictions when seeking to leave service.

All recruits have a statutory right to discharge, known as Discharge as of Right (DAOR). If under 18 at attestation, they may terminate their service at any time after completing 28 days of full-time paid duty and before six months have elapsed from their first day of service, by giving at least 14 days’ written notice to their Commanding Officer (CO). The CO may reduce the notice period at their discretion.

After six months, under-18s can apply to leave up to their 18th birthday but must give written notice and observe a cooling-off period of up to three months, which may be shortened by agreement. They can withdraw their notice during this period.

Commanders must ensure that under-18 recruits are fully informed of their rights to discharge and must facilitate their safe return to parents, guardians, or appropriate care arrangements. Support includes travel arrangements, accommodation if necessary, reimbursement of reasonable expenses, and follow-up to confirm safe arrival. This process safeguards both the recruit’s statutory rights and welfare.

All recruits and Junior Soldiers receive formal briefing on their right to Discharge as of Right during the Officer Commanding’s Week one induction.

In exceptional cases where family or welfare circumstances necessitate an under-18 recruit’s early release, the CO may apply to the competent Service authority to terminate the soldier’s service without requiring the usual 14 days’ notice or adherence to the six-month period. This provision allows for immediate discharge on safeguarding or welfare grounds, ensuring the recruit’s welfare is prioritised.