19th October 1934
Under-defended Jersey mulls conscription
Six years before it was invaded and occupied during the Second World War, Jersey’s authorities recognised that the island was dangerously under-defended.
As reported in the Belfast Telegraph, “The Jersey States Defence of Island Committee has been considering a report by a competent military authority that the island’s militia is at present ineffective. Drastic alterations are urged. It is suggested that the island should return to conscription or else pay Britain for the services of a battalion.”
Jersey had maintained its own voluntary militia since the British government stopped funding a professional force on the island in 1928.
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Other events that occured in October
Jersey’s last execution takes place
- Joseph Hutchet was executed for the murder of John Perree after a trial that lasted just three days.
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Car designer Ron Hickman is born
- Jersey-based designer Ronald Price Hickman designed three of the most lusted after cars of all time: the Lotus Elan, Elan +2 and Europa.
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Jersey death causes confusion in Scotland
- Annie Cameron left funds to establish a prize fund but there was some confusion over where she lived, which would affect her bequest.
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Thomas Waite is buried at St Saviour
- Thomas Waite, Member of Parliament for Rutland, was one of the 59 men who sat as judges at the trial of King Charles I, which convicted the king and sentenced him to death. Waite’s signature was on the death warrant.
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