National Insurance Local Tribunals

Abstract

Tribunals are at the centre of a growing controversy concerning citizen rights in welfare. In the first of two articles, attention is drawn to some of the salient features of this controversy and particularly to those aspects concerning national insurance local tribunals (NILTs). A special analysis of D.H.S.S. records is presented giving a picture of the distribution of the work of NILTs over different benefit categories, of success rates, of the extent of attendance by appellants and of representation. Generally the analysis suggests that NILTs are more various and less confined by law and regulation than is often assumed. Findings from surveys of chairmen, members and appellants are also presented. Men constitute the great majority of those concerned with NILTs and there are some striking contrasts between various groups in age and education. People who serve NILTs are shown to be active in a wide range of community activities and particularly in professional organizations, trade unions and local politics.

A status passage analysis of the defendant’s progress through the magistrates’ court.

“…This repetition of the defendant's name could be explained in part by the fact that in a formal situation where there are a number of people present, it is necessary for each speaker to identify whom he or she is addressing. This practice nevertheless contrasts with other decision-making bodies such as welfare tribunals, where a deliberate attempt is made to create an informal atmosphere by addressing people and communicating with them in ways that do not differ significantly from everyday interaction (see Bell, et al, 1974).…”