§ 5. Mr. Sloanasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that, on 25th June, 1941, the manager of Polquhairn Colliery, Drongan, contrary to the Essential Work Order, prevented two workmen named Logan and Dungavel from proceeding to their work, thereby causing 1228 them to lose two shifts, because he alleged they were 10 seconds too late; that this allegation is denied; and what action he intends to take against the coal company?
§ Mr. GrenfellI have made inquiries and am informed that the circumstances have been considered by the pit production committee, which has endorsed the action of the manager. If my hon. Friend has any further information on the matter, I shall be glad to discuss the question with him.
§ Mr. SloanWill the Minister please answer the Question whether he is aware that a violation has taken place of the Essential Work Order, which gives employers no power whatever to suspend or dismiss men for absenteeism?
§ Mr. GrenfellThe answer I gave was that I made inquiries of the pit production committee because the committee is responsible for the decision taken.
§ Mr. SloanIs the Minister aware that the only person who has power to deal with the matter is the district officer, who has never been called into question; and is he further aware that the pit production committee was not appointed by the men at that colliery?
§ Mr. GrenfellI hope my hon. Friend will give me the facts privately, and I will see what I can do. I did not know those things at all.