Desertion

During the Second World War the British government was constantly monitoring the success of its various policies concerning the Home Front. The government was also aware of the possibility that it might be necessary to introduce legislation to deal with any emerging problems.

It is December 1941. You have been asked to write a report on Desertion in the Armed Forces. This is to be divided into two sections.

Desertion in the Armed Forces: Main article

(1) A report on how men avoided joining the armed forces and the problems of desertion.

Things you should consider include:

(a) What was the National Service (Armed Forces) Act?

(b) Describe the different ways that men avoided conscription into the armed forces?

(c) Was desertion from the armed forces a major problem during the Second World War?

(d) Why did so many deserters get involved in criminal activity during the war?

(e) In what situation would men be most likely to desert from the armed forces?

(2) A report that includes proposals about the changes that you would like to see in government policy. These proposals will then be discussed and voted on by the rest of the class.

Things you should consider include:

(a) What methods would you use to prevent people from avoiding conscription?

(b) What methods would you use to round-up deserters from the armed forces?

(c) What punishments would you impose on deserters?