The Deputy represents a party with very close ties to the trade union movement. He is, undoubtedly, aware that all disciplinary procedures must be conducted in accordance with the Civil Service disciplinary code, including the appeal process provided for under the code. Such proceedings can be very protracted, especially when the appeal provisions of the code are invoked. Every action in this area has to have full regard to the requirements of natural justice and fair procedures. With regard to any officer in any Department or office who is suspended from duty, the relevant legislation – the Civil Service Regulations Act 1956 – provides for the payment of a portion of an officer's salary, for the mitigation of hardship, on application from the officer. Such payments are intended to allow an officer to maintain his or her family, rather than as a form of remuneration.