asked the Secretary of State for the Environment by what criteria he makes appointments to the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board; and whether his nominees report back to him on the discharge of their duties.

My right hon. Friend would expect to follow previous practice in paying regard to the general composition of the Board and the contribution likely to be made by a prospective member. We should, of course, observe the statutory requirement that one at least of the four members appointed must be a person who has wide experience of and shown capacity in the organisation of workers.The Order under which these appointments are made does not require members appointed by the Secretary of State to report to him on the discharge of their duties.