A‘need for discretion’as diabetic sees his call-up appeal rejected

A man with “intermittent diabetes” faced callup even though it was acknowledged that his family had done their bit for the war effort.

Alexander Meiklejohn, Myrtle Villa, Bridge of Allan worked as a clerk with Messrs Virtue & Co ironmongers, Murray Place, Stirling.

He asked Stirling Burgh Tribunal for an extension of his exemption from military service due to his ill health and because, as the only son at home, he was supporting his widowed mother .

Military representative Major Alston called on the tribunal to reject the request as the Government had now stipulated that no appeal against call-up was permissible for any man aged between 18 and 23.

The major said Mr Meiklejohn was not the only son as he had a brother who had been killed in the war and another serving.

Mr Meiklejohn said his medical grade had been changed from three to one – even though his health had not improved.

Although the appeal was rejected as incompetent and Mr Meiklejohn faced callup within a fortnight, Bailie Lamb said: “I look upon this as a very bad case. Mr Meiklejohn’s family have done their bit whilst there are others where no-one has been taken away.” Other tribunal members agreed.

Bailie Lamb said there should be some discretion in cases such as that of Mr Meiklejohn but Major Alston retorted: “The authorities won’t listen.”