3. Sir F. HALLasked the Minister of Pensions whether any, and, if so, how many additional appeal tribunals have been set up in the London region since the 28th February last; what is now the average number of appeals being heard each week; and what is the usual period which at present elapses between the date on which an appeal is received by the tribunal and the date on which it is listed for hearing?
§ Major BARNSTON (Comptroller of the Household)I have been asked to reply. There are at present eight Pension Appeal Tribunals sitting in London, dealing with approximately 400 cases each week. The average period elapsing between the date a London area appeal is received by the tribunal and the date on which it is listed for hearing is about seven weeks. The number of waiting appeals in this area have been considerably reduced since March last.
Sir F. HALLCannot steps be taken to set up additional tribunals, in order that this work can be expedited?
§ Major BARNSTONI will communicate that suggestion to my right hon. and learned Friend.
Sir F. HALLThat is practically the purport of the question. In order that there may be some improvement, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman take steps to see that that is done?