HC Deb 17 January 1972 vol 829 cc70-1W
Mr. Bishop

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that five men and no women served as members of the Sugar Board according to the List of Members of Public Boards of a Commercial Character as at 1st January, 1971 (Command Paper No. 4611); what changes have taken place since; whether he intends that women should be given an equal opportunity to serve when new appointments are made; and what action he proposes.

Mr. Prior

There have been no changes in the membership of the Sugar Board since January, 1971.

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister informed the hon. Member in July, 1971, the Government's policy in selecting people for public appointments is to choose the man or woman best qualified for the appointment irrespective of any other consideration. I shall continue to implement this policy in making appointments to the Sugar Board.—[Vol. 821, c. 359.]

Mr. Bishop

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that seven men and no women served as members of the White Fish Authority according to the List of Members of Public Boards of a Commercial Character as at 1st January, 1971 (Command Paper No. 4611); what changes have taken place since; whether he intends that women should be given an equal opportunity to serve when new appointments are made; and what action he proposes.

Mr. Prior

There have been no changes in the membership of the White Fish Authority since 1st January, 1971. In considering any future appointments of this kind, my right hon. Friends and I will continue to choose the person best qualified, irrespective of any other consideration.