§ 36. Mr. Willisasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware of the high percentage of cases which have concluded successfully for the appellant before the independent tribunals and, on points of law, before the High Court; and what steps he is taking to bring the administration of his Department more into line with the interpretation placed upon the Royal Warrant by the tribunals and, in regard to law, by the High Court.
§ Mr. BuchananI am aware that last year, following certain High Court decisions, an abnormally high percentage of the appeals, then with the tribunals for hearing, was successful, but I am glad to say that the figure has recently shown a marked decrease, and I hope it will continue to fall. I can assure my hon. Friend that my Department are fully alive to my desire that the provisions of the Royal Warrant shall be interpreted in the most sympathetic manner, with full regard to the decisions of the tribunals and of the High Court.