§ 78. Mr. Tomlinsonasked the Minister of Labour what representations he has 1440 received with respect to the hardship caused by umpires' decisions in antedating cases, whereby applicants have been deprived of benefit due to genuine misunderstandings; and what action he proposes to take?
§ Mr. E. BrownI have received representations on this subject from three local employment committees in the North Western area. The Regulations allow the ante-dating of claims when the claimant shows that there was good cause for his delay in making a claim. I am not satisfied that this provision, as interpreted by the umpire, requires amendment.
§ Mr. TomlinsonWill the Minister consider these representations in the light of allowing the insurance officer to use his discretion rather than the rigid interpretation of the umpire, as these cases are constantly arising?
§ Mr. BrownI am considering these representations, and I will let the hon. Member know when I have concluded my considerations.