s 51 Claims officers etc
(1) The Scheme may include provision for applications to be determined and payments to be made by persons (“claims officers”) appointed for the purpose by the Secretary of State. (2) A claims officer— (a) is to be appointed on such terms and conditions as the Secretary of State considers appropriate; (b) is not to be regarded as having been appointed to exercise functions of the Secretary of State or to act on behalf of the Secretary of State. (3) No decision taken by a claims officer shall be regarded as having been taken by, or on behalf of, the Secretary of State. (4) The Secretary of State may pay such remuneration, allowances or gratuities to or in respect of claims officers and other persons exercising functions in relation to the Scheme as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.