§ Mr. Robert McCartneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many of the new members appointed on 1 December 1997 to the Probation Board for Northern Ireland have been Alliance Party candidates; how many of the new members responded to press advertising for appointees; and what level of fees and expenses will be available to members of the Board. [22899]
§ Mr. IngramThree new members have been Alliance Party candidates. Of the 16 members of the board, 10 were new appointees, all of whom responded to press advertisements, the other six being re-appointees. Regarding the level of fees and expenses, I understand that the Chairman of the Board currently receives a remuneration of £11,150 per year. The Deputy Chairman and members of the board receive an attendance allowance of £26.96 for each meeting lasting up to 4 hours and £53.92 for longer meetings. (This is currently under review). In addition, travel and other expenses are met.