An applicant or recipient aggrieved because of a decision of the Commissioner or his authorized representative, or by delay in making a decision shall be entitled to appeal to the Board in the manner prescribed by it, and shall be afforded reasonable notice and opportunity for a fair hearing by the Board or by a representative duly appointed by it for that purpose. If the appeal concerns a termination or reduction of public assistance payments, such payments shall continue in full force and effect pending the Board's determination at the hearing, and shall thereafter be either continued, terminated or reduced pursuant to such determination. The Board shall meet to consider appeals hereunder within 30 days after the date of filing of same.