HC Deb 20 January 1948 vol 446 cc8-9
10. Mr. Hogg

asked the Minister of Labour why Mr. John Selfridge, of 65, Clydesdale Street, Hamilton, was directed to the mines on the 10th December, 1947, despite a doctor's certificate.

Mr. Isaacs

Mr. Selfridge went into coalmining as an alternative to service in His Majesty's Forces. He subsequently left without notice, and, as he refused to go back voluntarily, he was issued with a direction after being pronounced fit for coalmining employment by an independent medical referee. He appealed against the direction, and the local appeal board dismissed his appeal. As, however, a further medical certificate had been submitted by Mr. Selfridge from his own doctor, he was again examined by an independent medical referee, who on this occasion pronounced him unfit for coal-mining employment. The direction was thereupon withdrawn.

Mr. Hogg

Does not this entirely illustrate the folly of directing people against their will?

Mr. Isaacs

It may also indicate the folly of relying always on a doctor's opinion.

Mr. Hogg

On three doctors' opinions