§ Mr. Steenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the procedure for implementing the decisions of the independent Pensions Appeal Tribunal when it finds against the Department's own assessment; and what is the normal length of time between the Tribunal's findings and the payment of the award.
§ Mr. PortilloThe tribunal notifies the decision to the Department within two to four weeks of the hearing. The Department's doctors consider it and advise on the medical aspects. Payment is calculated and aspects such as overlapping benefits are considered. The Department aims to make payment within two months of the hearing.
§ Mr. Steenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) when the arrears of the increased award determined by the independent Pensions Appeal Tribunal on 24 June 1986, both at the 80 per cent. level for 1985–86 and at the 90 per cent. level for 1986–87 will be paid to Mr. J. F. Harding of 5 Undertown, Ugborough, Ivybridge, Devon; and if he will make a statement that Mr. Harding is now getting the pension which he was awarded by the independent Pensions Appeal Tribunal;
(2) what were the reasons for the delay in paying the increase awarded by the independent Pensions Appeal Tribunal against the Department's assessment of 60 per cent. to Mr. J. F. Harding of 5 Undertown. Ugborough.; Ivybridge, Devon, from 24 June 1986; and if he will make a statement;
(3) if he will set out the reasons why Mr. J. F. Harding of 5 Undertown, Ugborough, Ivybridge, Devon, has still not received the award of the independent Pensions Appeal Tribunal on 24 June 1986 for the 12 months previous to 24 June 1986.
§ Mr. PortilloThe Pensions Appeal Tribunal heard Mr. Harding's appeal on 13 March 1987. Regrettably, because of a clerical error, there were delays in implementing the tribunal's award. It is now in payment, and arrears were paid on 10 July 1987.