asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will consider making new provision for greater local influence on, and democratic scrutiny of, the actions of area boards.

The boards have been functioning now for less than 18 months, and are operating well. My right hon. Friend has no plans for making new provisions. Elected local councillors, nominated by their district councils, have a substantial number of seats on the area boards. As the members of these boards, and of their various committees, live within, or close to, their areas, local influence is considerable.