| Description | North Riding appeal tribunal number: 1474
Appeal against conscription of: William George Bray
Age: 32
Address: 1 James St, South Bank
Occupation: Iron and steel broker
Local tribunal: Eston Urban District Council
Central tribunal: No
Military Service Act 1916 or Attested: Military Act
Grounds for appeal: d) serious hardship
Appellant: William George Bray
Summary of case: William is self-employed as an iron and steel broker having previously worked for a firm in a similar capacity. He states that this firm is 'badged' and he feels that as this is the same occupation he too should be badge. He only started his business in Jan 1916 and asks for three months to gather up his stock which is scattered in various towns and dispose of it and wind up his business. He is married with two children. The tribunal concluded that 'he appealed as an iron and steel broker, which he is not, he is a scrap merchant in a small way and can sell all the scrap he can lay his hands on at any moment.' He had left his former employers and started, for himself, taking advantage of war conditions and high prices. He did not attend the local tribunal but sent a letter. He doubtless had hoped when he started business in Jan to escape service by not attesting. There is no reason whatever why he should be exempted. He should not be allowed to make a good bit out of the War instead of doing a little bit for his country. He has no place of business except his house in James Street'.
Supporting evidence: Yes
Date and decision of North Riding Appeal Tribunal: 1 Sep 1916 Dismissed |