After a plebiscite in April 1942, the demand for conscription died down. However, in order to contribute to the war effort and get some experience in battle, Canadians took part in the invasion of Italy in 1943. By May 1944, the army had suffered much higher casualties than had been expected. As the planned date for the invasion of France approached, Prime Minister King once again felt pressure from supporters of Britain and the Commonwealth to institute conscription. At the same time, he felt pressure from nationalist forces in Quebec to continue with the voluntary system of enlistment in the armed forces.