HC Deb 12 October 1944 vol 403 cc1910-1
7. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Minister of Labour if he has considered the letter from the New Forest Trades Council, sent to him by the hon. Member for West Fife, regarding the case of Mr. Smith; and whether any action is contemplated by his Ministry in this case.

Mr. Bevin

A summons was issued against Mr. Smith's employers on 14th September for failing to comply with a direction to reinstate him. On 5th October the employers were convicted, and fined £25, and £5 5s. costs.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the Minister not consider advising the prosecuting authorities, in a case of this kind, to make an example by putting one of these employers in prison?

Mr. Bevin

That would be a very dangerous precedent.