Sir John Swan announced yesterday.

He was responding to a plan by UBP hopeful Mr. Ted Gauntlett to draft all teens into a community service corps where they will learn self-worth and self defence.

Mr. Gauntlett, who is running in Sandys South, said he believed the plan would reduce social ills such as drug abuse, sex crimes, racism, theft, and pack racing.

And, he said, he believed the corps would have to be compulsory if it was to "catch the very youngsters who so desperately need positive direction''.

Sir John yesterday said the idea, which would have youngsters participating in community service, sports activities, fitness and a wide scope of educational programmes, has already received widespread support.

And he said it would be further refined before it is unveiled to the public.

But Sir John added: "I feel confident that, with the way the programme will be structured and operated, the Island's young people will want to take part in it on an entirely voluntary basis,'' he said.