Health Trust and Authority Appointments

HC Deb 18 January 1999 vol 323 c379W

Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of appointments to health trusts and health authorities in 1998 were not filled by re-appointment or new appointment immediately upon the completion of the period of service of the existing incumbent; how many such vacancies currently exist; and if he will make a statement. [65660]

Mr. Denham

In 1998, 555 appointments to National Health Service trusts and 318 appointments to health authorities were due to be made when the term of office of a chair or non-executive expired. 17.1 per cent. of the NHS trust appointments and 22.6 per cent. of the health authority appointments were not made before the due date. At 12 January 1999, 8.8 per cent. of the NHS trust and 2.5 per cent. of the health authority appointments remained unfilled. Great efforts are always made to ensure that all appointments are made on time. Any delays are due to the need to ensure that the right person is chosen for the job.