A History of the Durham Miner's Association 1870-1904Wilson, John
History
A History of the Durham Miner's Association 1870-1904
Wilson, John
Coal miners -- Labor unions -- Great Britain -- History; Durham Miners' Association -- History
If these men came within Section 22 it must be because these
particular men must be considered deserving, and also within the
objects of the Association. He thought unless there was something to
strike them out the argument on their behalf was well founded. The
real question was whether, although the language of Rule 3 defining
the objects of the Association included them, they had not by 51 been
removed. He thought that was the case. He did not think he could
limit the effect of that rule so as to make it mean that they should
forfeit only the absolute right to have 10s. per week under Rule 52,
which it was admitted they had lost. He thought the exclusion applied
not merely to claims as of right, but to all protection from the
Association, and they could not be deemed legally or properly objects
of the benefits of the Association.
So far as the Executive and trustees were concerned that trial and
decision were satisfactory, but the lodge said they wanted it taken to
the Court of Appeal. So far as bearing the cost of the trial was
concerned the pledge had been carried out, and the Committee were
surprised when it was suggested to carry the case to a higher court.
However, as they were desirous to have the case properly decided, and
that there should be no room for doubt (the welfare of the Association
being their great consideration), they agreed, and guaranteed the
payment of the entire costs. The appeal was heard on November 11th and
12th, the Judges being Rigby, Romer, and Vaughan Williams.
A strong effort was made to reverse the decision. All the skill,
plausibility, and sophistry of very able lawyers were used. The rules
were purposely disparaged and travestied, in order that a prejudice
might be created against them, but the judges unanimously agreed with
the finding of the Court of Chancery.
This is a bare record of facts of a dispute and trial which was
fraught with importance to the Association. It generated a great deal
of bitterness. The leaders could have had no personal ends to serve.
Their aim will be truly set forth by a quotation from the _Monthly
Circular_ for November 1900.
MONTHLY CIRCULAR, 1900
(_The Lessons of the Trial_)
The trial is over, and, so far as any personal feelings are concerned,
the sooner it is forgotten the better it will be for our Association.
To guard and strengthen that should be our first thought and care. But
while it will be beneficial for us to forget any attribution of ill
motives, and evil speaking or ruffled feelings consequential thereto,
we shall be wise men if we gather up the lessons which come to us.
This battle has been fought for one purpose only, and that is to
support the authority of the rules. To that end, and that alone, have
our efforts been devoted. The great question at this moment is:
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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