HC Deb 24 May 1979 vol 967 cc1217-8
15. Mr. Peter Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will review the representation on various nominated boards in Northern Ireland with a view to achieving a more balanced representation from political parties in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Alison

The membership of public bodies in Northern Ireland will, of course, be kept under review, but members will continue to be appointed for the personal contributions that they can make. They will not be appointed to represent political parties.

Mr. Robinson

Does the Minister agree that the present representation on the area boards in grossly unfair? Is he aware that one of the largest political parties in Northern Ireland does not have a member directly appointed to the boards, yet others have on the boards members who do not even live in the area covered?

Mr. Alison

We do not make appointments on a political basis, but entirely on the merits of the individual. A portion of the membership is appointed on the nomination of district councils. In that context there could be political nominations.

Mr. Wm. Ross

Surely the Minister realises that the time is long past when the functions controlled by these nominated boards should be brought under democratic local control?

Mr. Alison

That question does not relate to the terms on which we appoint members.

Mr. Concannon

Is the Minister aware that in Northern Ireland the grouping of political parties is not as in the United Kingdom? Some groups, notably the CBI and trade union movement, keep themselves out of the arena and the political dogfight in Northern Ireland. That should also be considered.

Mr. Alison

We are deeply aware of the undercurrents of political reality, but we specifically do not look at the political affiliations of individuals whom we appoint to the boards.

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