PENSIONS APPEAL TRIBUNALS

HC Deb 01 November 1945 vol 415 cc751-2W

Mr. Stubbs

asked the Minister of Pensions the number of appeals and the number of appeals upheld since the setting up of the appeals court.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

I would refer the hon. Member to the comprehensive reply given to the hon. Member for Gravesend (Mr. Garry Allighan) on 9th October.

Mr. Bowden

asked the Attorney-General if he will take steps to expedite the work of the pensions appeal tribunals, as the delay in hearing appeals is causing hardship to many applicants.

The Attorney-General

My Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor is already taking action in this matter and is hoping to increase the number of Pensions Appeal Tribunals from the present total of 15 to 17 at the end of this month and to 20 early in the New Year. The delay complained of is largely due to wartime difficulties generally, but as these are overcome, and with the proposed increase in the number of Tribunals, the hearing of appeals should be expedited.