asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the latest position regarding delays in appeals to the social security commissioners; what was the position a year previously; and what is his estimate of any future improvements.

[pursuant to his reply, 8 November 1982, c. 50]: In November 1981 a total of 2,995 cases, comprising both appeals and applications for leave to appeal were awaiting decision by the social security commissioners. The equivalent total figure today is 1,992. This is a significant improvement which I expect to be sustained.