§ 3. Mr. Sloanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that John Cairns, a dock labourer, 131, South Street, Lochgelly, was. sent to prison for 14 days at Dunfermline Sheriff Court, on 3rd November, for refusing to take a job as brusher at a colliery; and as Cairns did not refuse suitable work at the colliery, but stated he was not a 151 brusher and was afraid to assume such responsibility, he will take steps to have this sentence remitted?
Mr. JohnstonFrom inquiries I have made, I find that John Cairns was sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment for refusing to comply with directions given by the Ministry of Labour and National Service to take work as a brusher. I am informed that the local tribunal by whom his case was considered on appeal were satisfied that he had several years experience in such work and was fitted to undertake it.
§ Mr. SloanAm I to understand from that answer that a workman being transferred to a colliery, after having been away for a considerable time, is compelled to do such dangerous and responsible work as that of a brusher?
Mr. JohnstonThe point is that the tribunal which heard this man's appeal decided on the evidence that he was an appropriate person to go, and I think a medical certificate was issued to that effect.
§ Sir Herbert WilliamsCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us what is a brusher? Most of us do not know.
§ Mr. SloanSince a brusher's job is one of the most dangerous and responsible in a colliery, do I understand that colliery managers are to be entitled to put a man on this job without his having a period in a colliery in which to recondition himself at the work?
Mr. JohnstonI can only say that in these matters particular cases are referred to tribunals who hear evidence on these appeals. In this case they decided that the man was fit.
§ Mr. Gordon MacdonaldIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that in this case the tribunal was so composed as to be able to judge a matter like this?