PLANS by First Minister Jack McConnell to bring in voluntary national service for teenagers were slammed today by opposition politicians.

SNP deputy leader Nicola Sturgeon said they were a "gimmick" and Tory whip Bill Aitken said Mr McConnell was "flying a kite".

Mr McConnell revealed his Jack's Army' idea after talks with Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Discussions have been held with the Ministry of Defence and the project could be operating by next year.

Under the scheme, 16 and 17-year-olds would sign up for two-month live-in courses run by the Territorial Army.

Mr McConnell said it would boost their job prospects as they would learn basic skills including teamwork and leadership.

A source close to the First Minister said it "wasn't national service", adding: "It would be a voluntary scheme and it builds on the First Minister's policies of providing opportunities for young people."

However, Ms Sturgeon said the idea had been trotted out by Labour at the last General Election.

She said: "It will need more than gimmicks to solve the problem of youth crime or provide a decent future for young people who are not in employment, education or training."

Mr Aitken: "I'm all for kids having involvement through the TA or the cadets but I wonder whether this idea is workable."

Mr McConnell said: "The Territorial Army do a terrific job. Lots of young people benefit from their disciplined, character-building approach and I'm sure this will be a popular choice with youngsters and their parents."