HC Deb 22 November 1977 vol 939 c664W
49. Mr. Brotherton

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what criteria are used in selecting members of area health authorities.

Mr. Ennals

Members of area health authorities are appointed after wide consultations by the regional health authority, or by matching local authorities. Members are expected to be interested in the Health Service, able to identify themselves with the area, and to play a full part in the working of the authority. Certain places on each authority are reserved: one-third are occupied by local authority members, and places are set aside also for at least two doctors and one nurse, two other staff members, one TUC nominee and at least one nominee of the appropriate university.