§ 54. Mr. JOELasked the Minister of Labour the average time taken by umpires in deciding the cases submitted to them by the referees; whether he is aware that there is delay in reaching a decision in many oases; and whether he is satisfied that there are a sufficient number of umpires to deal with the cases submitted to them?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)The average time is about three weeks from the date when the appeal reaches the Umpire's office. Owing to the very heavy pressure of work, there were until recently some arrears, but these have now been overtaken, and my right hon. Friend is satisfied that there is at present no need to appoint additional deputy umpires.