Germany ends conscription

SOME 12,150 German conscripts have started their military service as part of the last group that is obligated to serve six months in the military.

Starting in July, the German Army will end conscription and cut its 250,000-strong force to 185,000 volunteer troops.

German Defence Ministry spokesman Christian Dienst said no official ceremony was planned to mark the date, though individual officers may decide to do something special for the recruits.