HC Deb 19 December 2002 vol 396 cc89-90WS
The Minister for Energy and Construction (Mr. Brian Wilson):

The current Chair of the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority—who is also the Chief Executive of the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets—plans to step down in October 2003. My rt hon Friend the Secretary of State and I have decided that separate individuals should be sought for the two roles. Accordingly, we are seeking a non-executive Chair, who will provide leadership and direction to the other members of the Authority and to the Chief Executive, has an appreciation of how competitive markets operate, and be committed to Ofgem's social and environmental obligations. The Chair-designate will join the Authority on appointment initially as a non-executive member, and thereafter will take the lead in the selection of a Chief Executive.