§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what considerations he has given to the payment of interest on awards made by the social security appeal tribunals when the date of the award is more than six months after the submission of the claim by the appellant; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe administration of social security appeal tribunals is a matter for the president, his honour Judge Derek Holden. Appeals are heard as soon as possible, depending on the inquiries that have to be made, and the number of other appeals awaiting hearing. We have no plans to pay interest on any arrears of benefit a tribunal might award.