Ed Smith has today been confirmed as Non Executive Director of the NHS Commissioning Board Authority with responsibility for Chairing the Audit Committee. He will take up post today.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said:

“I am delighted that Ed Smith will join the NHS Commissioning Board and bring his expertise to the table.

“As the Chair of the Audit Committee, Ed Smith will provide a vital contribution to the organisation’s assessment and management of risks. This is a very important role which carries significant responsibilities and I am confident that he is the right person for the job.”

Chair of the NHS Commissioning Board Authority, Professor Malcolm Grant said:

“I look forward to working together with Ed Smith as we take forward the establishment of this vital organisation with colleagues across health and social care. The creation of a brand new organisation is no small task, but I strongly believe that a clinically-led, patient-focused commissioning system will bring real improvements in outcomes for all.”

The NHS Commissioning Board’s central role will be to drive improvement in results for patients, ensuring a fair and comprehensive service across the country. It will also promote the NHS Constitution and champion the interests of patients, using choice and information to empower people to improve services.

Accountable to the Secretary of State via an annual mandate, the NHS Commissioning Board will be an independent, statutory body, free to determine its own organisational shape, structure and ways of working.

The Secretary of State will remain responsible for promoting a comprehensive health service; and retains the ultimate accountability for securing the provision of services, through his relationship with NHS bodies.

The NHS Commissioning Board will become officially operational subject to the Health and Social Care Bill.