§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the current criteria for making appointments to hospital boards; what are the qualities required of members thereof; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Moyle:The chairmen and members of health authorities are appointed in accordance with the provisions of schedule 5 to the National Health Service Act 1977. My right hon. Friend appoints the chairmen and members of regional health authorities and the chairmen of area health authorities after wide consultations. Members of area health authorities are appointed in part by the regional health authorities and partly by matching local authorities. Certain places are reserved on each authority; one-third are occupied by local authority members and places are set aside also for at least two doctors and one nurse, two other staff members, one TUC nominee and at least one nominee of the appropriate university.
Members are expected to have a close interest in the Health Service, to be able to identify themselves with the region or area, and to play a full part in the working of their authority.