§ Mr. Nigel EvansTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many non-departmental public bodies are currently in existence; what percentages of appointments to these bodies are held by women and by members of ethnic minorities; and when the annual list of such bodies will be published. [6649]
§ Mr. WillettsOn I April 1995, there were 1,227 non-departmental public bodies—a fall of 118 or 8.8 per cent. since 1994, and of 940 or 43 per cent. since 1979. As of I September 1995, 30 per cent. of appointments to these bodies were held by women and 2.9 per cent. by members of the ethnic minorities: this compares with 23 per cent. and 2.0 per cent. respectively four years ago, when the Prime Minister announced the Government's determination to increase the representation of women and ethnic minorities in this area. Details can he found in "Public Bodies 1995" published today. Copies have been placed in the Library of the House.