§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the role of the Welsh Office in respect of the appointment of members of the Board of S4C—Sianel Pedwar Cymru; and what is his policy in respect of such appointments. [63158]
§ Mr. MichaelAppointments to the Board of S4C are made by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. I am consulted on these appointments at the short-listing stage and before appointments are finally made.
My Department supports the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in the administrative work involved in making these appointments. Two vacancies for members of S4C were advertised in July, and my Department has handled inquiries and the receipt of applications. One of my officials will chair the interview panel, which will also include the Chair of S4C and an independent member.
My policy is to offer my right hon. Friend every assistance in selecting for these appointments the persons best qualified and suited to hold them, bearing in mind the range of skills and knowledge required for the Board.