CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR

Southland Times, Issue 24596, 19 November 1941, Page 6

CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR

Carpenter At Naval

Station

(P.A.) AUCKLAND, November 18. When a conscientious objector, Trevor Barton Prentice, told the No. 1 Armed Forces Appeal Board that he was engaged on carpentering work at H.M.N.Z.S. Tamaki, but would not defend himself in the event of an attack, his statement evoked an expression of concern from the chairman, Mr C. R. Orr-Walker, S.M., who said the mattei’ should be reported to the Defence authorities. The witness said his objection to armed conflict and the taking of human life was based on his training as a child. In the event of an attack he would adhere to his principles. The chairman: And you are on Motuihi Island The witness: Yes.

If that island was attacked and a landing made by an enemy, what would you do?—I would not defend myself. I would give myself up. The chairman: That would be a lovely thing for those down at the island.

The chairman said he would be very concerned if he was in charge of the island. “I would not have you there for a moment,” he said. “It is too dangerous.” Mr Orr-Walker expressed the opinion that the matter should be reported to the Defence authorities. The witness under further examination said he was prepared to do service of a medical, dental or other non-com-batant nature, but only in New Zealand.

The reservist’s mother, Mrs Prentice, said she felt her son had not made himself clear. He did not wish to take life, but she was sure he would not be a danger as had been suggested. He was inoffensive, good living and no coward. The reservist, she believed, would protect her if she was in danger. The appeal was dismissed.