I would be interested, from a standpoint of hearing other representatives opinions and other organisational opinions and thus to understand and consider responses to the suggested guidance under consultation from TJ (previously TAS).

Do reps consider the gudaince is required?

What is the opinion of others with regards to the statement on further evidence?

Do reps consider that the notice of hearing is around 6 wqeeks is accurate?

Do reps consider it reasonable to state that the later the evidence after the date of the decision the less likely it is to be relevant?

Do reps agree that the weight given to a medical report will be much reduced if the letter instructing the report is omitted?

Do reps consider that the adjournment instructions to representatives to bring a note of their future diaries implies TJ are extending the right of the clt to be repped by the one and only attending rep?

See news item on Rightsnet for copy.

Here's a link to the 12 July rightsnet news story -

Good pre-hearing practice for appeals representatives: Tribunals Service consultation

Although there is a link in the above news story, the Tribunal Service consultation paper,'Statement of good pre-hearing practice for guidance and assistance of those representing appellants at tribunals', is also available here -

http://www.rightsnet.org.uk/pdfs/good_pre-hearing_practice_july_2006.pdf

Letter says that consultation is to be carried out on a regional basis. Is anyone aware if this is happening?

I've just come back from a Tribunal Users Group meeting today and we've been asked to comment.