HC Deb 24 January 1978 vol 942 cc543-4W
Mr. Arnold

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proportion of members of regional health authorities are lay members.

Mr. Moyle

There is no settled proportion. Health authorities include two doctors, a nurse and two other staff members, a nominee of the University and at least six general members. The remainder—one-third—are drawn from local government.

Mr. Arnold

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the responsibilities of a regional health authority.

Mr. Moyle

Regional health authorities are statutory and corporate bodies. Their principal functions are the formulation, within national guidelines, of regional policies priorities and strategy for the provision and development of health services within the region; the allocation of resources to and monitoring the performance of area health authorities whose membership they appoint.