HC Deb 24 February 1921 vol 138 cc1107-8
13. Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALL

asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that there is delay in appellants having their cases heard before an appeal tribunal, particularly in the London region; whether recommendations have been made for considerable increase in the number of these courts; if he can give any reason why there has been such delay in recommendations being carried out; and what steps it is intended to take to remedy this unsatisfactory state of affairs?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am informed that two extra courts are now sitting and that two more will begin sitting next Monday. The question of still further increasing the number of courts is now under the consideration of the Lord Chancellor.

Sir F. HALL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when the four courts have been assembled they will not be sufficient to do all the necessary work, and will he take steps to increase them beyond four?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Yes. My hon. and gallant Friend knows that I have no control over the appeal tribunal, but I will make it my duty to approach the Lord Chancellor to see whether he cannot find more courts, because I am very much afraid that there may be an increase in the next month in the number of cases awaiting trial.

Sir F. HALL

Will the right hon. Gentleman see the Lord Chancellor on the matter as soon as possible?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I will do my level best.

Mr. NEWBOULD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is not generally known by ex-service men and their dependents that he has no control over this tribunal, and that the Ministry of Pensions is receiving a great deal of blame which it does not deserve?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am aware of that, but from the questions that are asked in this House and the answers, given ex-service men should realise the position.

Major ENTWISTLE

Although the appeal tribunal does not come under the Ministry of Pensions at all, will not the decision as to the number of such tribunals be guided largely by the opinion of the right hon. Gentleman?

Mr. MACPHERSON

That is so, and I hope it may be possible, in consultation with the Lord Chancellor, to increase the number of these courts.