Document five
A Dartford conscientious objector
Harry Holloway of Home Gardens, Dartford, a compositor at Burroughs and Wellcome, was a conscientious objector. He said he could not violate his feelings by aiding or assisting the war in any way whatsoever. He did not do so on religious grounds. He was not a professing Christian, but he was as religious, apart from theological grounds, as anyone. In reply to questions, he said he was not a member of any religious body, and had not been tutored by anybody who offered to assist conscientious objectors.
He was asked if he could bring any evidence to suggest that he was possessed of these views before the outbreak of the war. He replied that he did not know that any people could have their views tabulated in this way. To take part in the war would violate all his ideals and principles, and he did not wish to aid either side in prosecuting the war. He had belonged to a Socialist organisation for years, and was prepared to suffer death or any worse punishment in default of serving. In reply, he admitted that he had not denied himself food or clothing which had been brought into the country through the gallantry of sailors, many of whom had lost their lives. The application was refused.
A CONTEMPORARY REPORT FROM THE DATFORD CHRONICLE