MSPs call for evidence on Miners' Strike (Pardons) Bill

Views have been invited from the public on the Scottish Government bill to pardon miners convicted of certain offences during the 1984-85 miners’ strike.

The Scottish Parliament's Equalities, Human Rights & Civil Justice Committee has issued its call for evidence as part of its stage 1 scrutiny of the Miners’ Strike (Pardons) (Scotland) Bill.

If passed, the Bill would automatically pardon those convicted of the offences of breach of the peace, breach of bail of obstruction of police etc under the Police (Scotland) Act 1967, s 41(1)(a), which occurred during the course of a miner’s participation in a picket line, demonstration or similar gathering in supporting the strikes or while travelling to or from a picket line or demonstration.

The legislation, which was recommended by an inquiry chaired by solicitor advocate John Scott QC, is an attempt to bring reconciliation between those upholding the law and those who were striving to protect their jobs, livelihoods and communities.

Committee convener Joe FitzPatrick MSP commented: “Many of those who took part and were convicted for their participation in the miners’ strike have had to live with the consequences and the resulting stigma for decades. This bill seeks to provide some closure to communities across Scotland by pardoning those found guilty of certain offences during those bitter disputes.

“As we launch this inquiry, we want to find out if this legislation is the right approach to achieve reconciliation and right those historical injustices or if there are alternative ways we can reach that goal.

“In seeking views to aid our scrutiny, we particularly want to hear about how far the proposed pardons go and whether they cover the right people and offences.”

Click here to access and respond to the call for views. Responses are due by 14 January 2022.