§ Sir Anthony GrantTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will introduce regulations to require all appeals against termination of sub-postmasters' contracts to be heard by an independent person or tribunal; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeighThe conduct of appeals procedures, in common with all other employment issues, is an operational matter and therefore the responsibility of the Post Office. It would not be consistent with Government policy to seek to make regulations on such matters. All appeals against termination of subpostmasters' contracts are heard by an appeals authority of Post Office managers not connected with the case in question. This arrangement has been agreed with the National Federation of Subpostmasters.