§ Dr. Winstanleyasked the Attorney-General what is the average age of members of the pension appeals tribunals; what are the ages of the youngest and oldest members of the tribunals, respectively; and what provision exists for the removal of members of the tribunals on grounds of age or incapacity.
The Attorney-GeneralThe average age of members of the pensions appeal tribunals is 66. The youngest member is 53 and the oldest 74. No statutory provision exists for the removal of members on the grounds of age or incapacity. Appointments are normally terminated at the age of 72, but where it appears to my noble friend the Lord Chancellor in the public interest to do so appointments are extended up to the age of 75. Tribunals are formed of any three members having the required qualifications. A member suffering from incapacity is not selected to sit.