§ Mr. Nigel GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will consider holding elections for local health council members.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 18 February 1991]: No.
§ Mr. Nigel GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will reconsider his decision to abolish independent local health councils and replace them with councils appointed by the health board.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 18 February 1991]: Local health councils will continue as in the past to be independent bodies. The difference is that places will no longer be reserved for certain groups. Instead all members will be chosen for their individual attributes and on the basis of the contribution which they can make. The Government's decision on this matter was broadly welcomed by the Opposition Front Bench and I see no need to reconsider it.