BENEFIT TRIBUNALS

Early day motion 465, tabled 15 December 2009 by Eddie McGrady (Social Democratic and Labour Party). Signed by 35 members.

That this House calls for improved measures for appellants in benefit tribunals; recognises that at present most appellants, who are often amongst the most vulnerable members of society, have no source of income, or only reduced rates of benefit, whilst their appeal is being listed and their entitlement to other secondary benefits is also removed; further recognises that the appeals process can take several months to complete, which places many appellants in difficult financial circumstances with no discernible form of income; and calls on the Department for Work and Pensions to review current guidelines to prevent appellants from experiencing financial hardship.

Signatures by party: Labour 20, Liberal Democrat 7, DUP 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Conservative 1, Independent 1, Respect 1, Scottish National Party 1.