Written question asked by Paul Keetch (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 20 April 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 April 2004. It was answered by Ivor Caplin (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 April 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the reasons are for the delays of over three years of army redress cases; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Keetch: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the reasons are for the delays of over three years of army redress cases; and if he will make a statement. [167837] Mr. Caplin: All complainants have the right to take their complaint, through a series of levels in the chain of command, to the Army Board (as the Defence Council). Officers have the further opportunity to petition the Crown. A relatively small number of redress cases remain unresolved after more than three years. This is usually because of the need to exchange detailed case papers with the complainant, prior to the redress being heard, or because the cases concern complex legal issues, which can take a considerable time to resolve. Additionally, if a complainant submits a case to an employment tribunal or civil court case it is normal practice for the Army to suspend its consideration until these bodies have reached a conclusion.

Secondary information