HC Deb 22 November 1977 vol 939 cc676-7W
Mr. Holland

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many regional health authority chairmen have been appointed since (a) 1974, (b) 1975, and (c) 1976; and what are their principal duties.

Mr. Moyle

The terms of office of the chairmen appointed to the 14 regional health authorities which were created on 1st April 1974 will expire on 31st July 1978. Two appointments, both in 1975, have been made to fill vacancies in the intervening years. Chairmen lead their authorities in the formulation and implementation of policies, within national guidelines, for the provision and development of health services within their regions.

Mr. Holland

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many area health authority chairmen have been appointed since (a) 1974, (b) 1975, and (c) 1976; and what are their principal duties.

Mr. Moyle

All 90 area health authority chairmen were appointed from 1st August this year. Following the creation of these authorities in April 1974, five appointments were made to fill vacancies in the intervening years—two in 1975 and three in 1976. Area chairmen lead their authorities in the formulation and implementation of policies, within national and regional guidelines, for the provision and development of health services within their areas.