Ms Joan Gordon:

I will address the first question first and then give some context. Under the existing regulations, the discretion to hold an oral hearing or a summary decision lies wholly with the appeals officer assigned to the case. That remains the case under the new draft regulations. Last year, when we were easing away from Covid restrictions, appeals officers were asked to consult with their line managers, although merely to consult, and to discuss the circumstances in which they might need to have an in-person hearing. That was purely a management role. It was designed to gather some information as to the circumstances in which in-person hearings or online hearings were most appropriate. The draft regulations reflect that. Appeals officers are asked to consult with the deputy chief appeals officer. However, I confirm that, in the legislation, the discretion lies with the appeals officer.