§ Mike GapesTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the average wait was for a disability benefit appeal hearing in the last 12 months; and what plans he has to improve the service. [73067]
§ Maria EagleThe average waiting time over the 12 month period, ending August 2002, for Disability Living Allowance appeals, from date of receipt by the Appeals Service until first hearing, was 13.1 weeks. A modernisation programme is currently underway which aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness in the handling of appeals.
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