Mr Major’s Written Parliamentary Answer on the Social Fund – 10 March 1987

Below is the text of Mr Major’s written Parliamentary Answer on the Social Fund on 10th March 1987.

Mr. Fatchett Asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether those appealing against a refusal of assistance from the social fund will have a right to an oral hearing; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Major Decisions on payments from the social fund for maternity and funeral expenses will be subject to the normal appeal procedures of the social security adjudication system, and claimants wishing to appeal will have a right to an oral hearing by a social security appeal tribunal. Those who are dissatisfied with decisions about other payments from the fund will have a right of review, in the first instance by local management, and will be given the opportunity at that stage of an interview at which to discuss their case.