Bogus

In its contracts with publishers, the powerful International Typographical Union usually insists on a gimmick known as "bogus." This is type set by I.T.U. printers which duplicates advertising matter received in matrix form. Bogus is not intended to be used, but it makes work for union members. The American Newspaper Publishers Association contended that bogus is featherbedding, and thus banned as an unfair labor practice by the Taft-Hartley law.

This week the high court, 6-3, ruled that bogus is not outlawed by Taft-Hartley.

Speaking for the majority, Justice Harold Burton held that Taft-Hartley banned featherbedding only when a union exacted payment for service not performed. The need, or usefulness of the service, was immaterial. Chief Justice Vinson and Justices Clark and Douglas dissented. Said Douglas: "In no sense ... is [bogus] 'service' to the employer."

This week also the Supreme Court agreed to review the case of Harry Bridges West Coast labor boss, who has been convicted of perjury in the lower courts and sentenced to five years' imprisonment.

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