Midlothian MSP speaks in Miner's Pardon Bill debate at Holyrood

Members of the NUM miners' union picket line clash with police outside Bilston Glen colliery during the miners strike in June 1984. Four policemen struggle with a picket.

The Bill is making its way through Parliament and received unanimous support at Stage 1. Mr Beattie spoke in the debate which resonates closely with many of his constituents across the ex-mining communities he represents.

He believes the UK Government should follow suit for miners all over the UK and launch a full public inquiry to address the concerns raised about political interference, policing, fairness and how the courts dealt with miners who were accused of crimes resulting from the strikes.

The Miners' Strike (Pardons) (Scotland) Bill provides a pardon for miners who were convicted of certain offences relating to the 1984-1985 miners’ strike where the conditions of the pardon are met. If the Bill is enacted, a pardon will apply automatically. Miners will not need to apply for a pardon.

Midlothian North and Musselburgh MSP Colin Beattie (SNP).

Mr Beattie said: “I was pleased to have the opportunity to speak in this debate in the Parliament. I know the events of the ’84-’85 Miners’ strike still remain raw and divisive in ex-mining communities, even today when I speak to ex-miners and their families in my constituency.

“This is why this Bill is so important to our mining communities. It brings justice to those who have faced stigma, wipes out the stain of law breaking for so many decent miners who were simply caught up in the unholy mess but did not truly realise the consequences this would have on them.

“The Bill has justice and fairness at its heart. It is about restoring dignity to those convicted and, I hope, a sense of closure to the lingering feelings of injustice.

“I am proud that this is the first government in the UK to propose a Bill like this.

"This is an opportunity for the UK Government to follow in the steps of the Scottish Government. I also recognise that many issues around the potential for financial compensation are reserved to the UK Government and call for this to be reviewed as part of the inquiry if Westminster agrees to address this important issue on behalf of miners elsewhere in the UK.

“I do hope this Bill proceeds swiftly to avoid any delay in righting the wrongs that should never have happened.”