Squadron-Leader E. Robertsasked the Minister of Pensions what is the average time elapsing between the lodging of a pensions appeal and its final determination; and whether he is satisfied that appeals are heard promptly.
§ Mr. Wilfred PalingThe period which elapses between the lodging of an appeal and its hearing by the pensions appeal tribunal varies according to the type of case. Preference is given to cases in which an early decision is specially desirable, such as appeals by widows or by seriously disabled members of the Forces. Delay in hearing appeals is largely due to wartime difficulties generally, but all possible steps are taken to expedite the hearing of appeals and I understand that my Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor has arranged for two additional Tribunals to be set up in England at the end of this month and hopes to have a further three, making a total of 20, in operation at the beginning of the New Year.