§ Mr. McNamaraasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he proposes to make new appointments to the Police Authority for Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe present members complete their three-year term of office on 28th June.
The present chairman, Sir Ian Fraser, and vice-chairman, Mr. Frank Benner, indicated some time ago that they wished to be released from office, but they have been good enough to continue to serve until now. I am happy to be able to announce that I have appointed Mr. Myles Humphreys as the new chairman of the authority, and Mr. Ivor Canavan as vice-chairman, both appointments to take effect from 29th June.
The Police Act 1970 requires that as far as practicable members appointed to the authority should be representative of the community in Northern Ireland and of the different interests in the community. The various interests are being consulted. I shall shortly announce the details of the appointments, or reappointments.