§ 1. Mr. PENNEFATHERasked the Pensions Minister how many men's cases are now awaiting the decisions of Pensions Appeal Tribunals; the average number of decisions per day by each tribunal; and how many tribunals there are now in existence?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Colonel Sir James Craig)The number of cases actually in the hands of the Pensions Appeal Tribunal awaiting decision is 1,941. In addition there are 7,806 cases in various stages of preliminary investigation. There are five tribunals actually sitting; ten cases are set down for hearing by each Court per day, and of these seven or eight are actually decided. The 442 majority of those not decided are adjourned sine die on account of the failure of the appellant to attend.
§ Mr. PENNEFATHERHas the Pensions Ministry considered how many days it will take to overtake the arrears if only thirty-five cases per day are taken?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI think the hon. Member has another question which deals, with that point.
§ 5. Mr. PENNEFATHERasked the Pensions Minister whether it is his intention to lessen the delay in obtaining decisions by Pensions Appeal Tribunals by increasing the number of tribunals?
§ Sir J. CRAIGThe answer is in the affirmative. It is proposed to increase the number of tribunals to ten.