§ Mr. Barronasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his policy in relation to the appointment of district health authority chairmen; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenWe regard the chairmanship of a district health authority as an important post. As such it demands people of the highest calibre. Although there is no statutory duty to do so, we seek nominations for these posts from a number of sources, including from hon. Members. In that respect, I refer the hon. Member to my reply on 18 April to my hon. Friend the Member for Stevenage, (Mr. Wood) at column277.