The strategy document “Improving Health in Wales”, published by the National Assembly for Wales in February 2001, signalled the intention to abolish the existing five Health Authorities in Wales on 31st March 2003 and to create Local Health Boards (“LHBs”) to which the National Assembly may delegate the functions of Health Authorities and other functions of the National Assembly relating to the health service.

LHBs are to be established on by the Local Health Boards (Establishment) (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/148, W.18) and will commence operating on 1st April 2003. Their functions are set out in the Local Health Boards (Functions) (Wales) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003/150, W.20).

These Regulations make provision for the constitution and membership of LHBs, including their procedures and administrative arrangements.