§ 18. Mr. Silvermanasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to recent proceedings of the Newcastle Military Service Tribunal; and whether he is satisfied that the chairman of the tribunal deserves his continued confidence?
§ Mr. E. BrownYes, Sir. I am being kept fully informed of the proceedings of local conscientious objector tribunals. My information does not lead me to suppose that the chairman referred to is not carrying out his duties in an impartial manner.
§ Mr. SilvermanDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider that the chairman of such a tribunal whose impatience with applicants in public is such that it leads him to make remarks for which he has later to apologise, is really displaying that proper judicial temper with which these cases should be considered?
§ Mr. BrownI do not accept the setting of the supplementary question. There was one display of irritation with, I think, a handsome apology next day. I would point out to the hon. Member that some of those who give evidence are not themselves easy persons to deal with.
§ Mr. SilvermanIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this incident has been repeated, and that it is not limited 1008 to the isolated case to which he refers in his answer?