§ 25. Syd RapsonTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister and First Secretary of State how he intends to ensure representation of all regions on the boards of national public bodies. [49368]
§ Mr. LeslieThe key principle in making appointments to all public bodies remains appointment on merit. The opportunity to serve on a public body should be available to all, regardless of disability, age, ethnicity, gender, geographic or social background. And that is why the Government wants to make sure that, as part of our emphasis on increasing diversity, applicants for all appointments are encouraged from all parts of the United 271W Kingdom. In line with this, the Cabinet Office is running a series of regional seminars for women interested in serving on a public body.