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Title:
Membership of Tribunals, 1971-1972; Supplementary Benefit Appeals Tribunal

Subject Categories:
Elites and leadership - Social stratification and groupings

Depositor(s):
Hawker, G.N., University of Birmingham. Institute of Judicial Administration

Principal Investigator(s):
Hawker, G.N., University of Birmingham. Institute of Judicial Administration
Newton, D., University of Birmingham. Institute of Judicial Administration
Sumorok, E., University of Birmingham. Institute of Judicial Administration
Cavenagh, W.E., University of Birmingham. Institute of Judicial Administration

Sponsor(s):
Economic and Social Research Council

Abstract:
The aim of this study was to identify the social characteristics of members of selected administrative tribunals, to compare the members with other citizens involved in public service and to explain the criteria and practical means by which members are selected, or select themselves.
Main Topics:
Attitudinal/Behavioural Questions
The survey assesses member's prior knowledge of, and familiarity with, the work of Appeals Tribunals and method of choice of members (i.e. whether through personal application or through suggestion of individual or organisation). Respondents are asked for their opinion of reasons for their selection, and whether they were appointed as Minister's nominee or as Trades Council nominee. If the member has been promoted to Chairman since his appointment, the importance of remuneration is obtained. If he is an ordinary member, the importance of fee for service and any eventual financial loss to the member through service are ascertained.
Respondent, opinion on frequency of sittings of tribunals, necessary experience, qualifications and personal qualities required of a good chairman and effective ordinary member, and own personal satisfaction or dissatisfaction in service are elicited. In a final section, comments are invited on methods of recruiting and selecting members, on changes needed in kinds of people appointed, and on the general work of Tribunals.
Background Variables
Age, highest formal education or professional qualifications, status of employment (i.e. whether self-employed, employed, retired or housewife), last paid occupation, husband's occupation (if housewife), judicial or semi-judicial or committee experience (with details and dates), membership of professional, occupational or trade union organisations and any voluntary work done during the period, 1962 - 72. A final detailed breakdown of income and salary from all sources completes the information.

Coverage:
Dates of Fieldwork: September 1971-October 1972
Country: England and Wales
Observation Units: Individuals; Groups; Institutions/organisations

Universe Sampled:
Location of Units of Observation:National
Population:Members of Supplementary Benefit Appeals Tribunals in three of twelve administrative regions in England and Wales: West Midlands, East Midlands and Wales

Methodology:
Time Dimensions: Cross-sectional (one-time) study
Sampling Procedures: No sampling (total universe)
Number of Units: 363 (target) 261 (obtained)
Method of Data Collection: Postal survey

Access:
Access Conditions: The depositor has specified that registration is required and standard conditions of use apply. The depositor may be informed about usage. See terms and conditions for further information.
Availability: ESDS Access and Preservation, UK Data Archive
Contact: Help desk: help@esds.ac.uk

Date of Release:
First Edition: 1974

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