CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS FROM BLAENAU FFESTINIOG

Early day motion 1816, tabled 12 November 2018 by Liz Saville-Roberts (Plaid Cymru). Signed by 9 members.

That this House remembers two conscientious objectors from Blaenau Ffestiniog, north Wales, on the centenary of the Armistice; recognises William Jones of 22 Lord Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog, born circa 1882, who was exempted only from combatant service, then called up to Non-Combatant Corps, Aldershot; further recognises Evan Lewis of 17 Bowydd Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog, born circa 1886, who was exempted only from combatant service, then called up to Non-Combatant Corps, Wrexham; notes that both William Jones and Evan Lewis contracted influenza, and sadly passed away within days of each other, with Evan Lewis passing away on 15 November 1918 and William Jones passing away on 18 November 1918, at Connaught Hospital; further notes that they are both now buried at Llan Ffestiniog Cemetery; understands that 130,000 Welshmen joined the Armed Forces between 1916 and 1918, and 900 men refused military service and became conscientious objectors; and thanks William Jones and Evan Lewis, along with all others who played a part in the First World War, for their service.

Signatures by party: Plaid Cymru 4, Scottish National Party 4, Labour 1.