DIRECT elections to health boards have been backed by trade union members in Unison Scotland.

The union's Scottish organiser Dave Watson told MSPs it would give the public greater confidence in how the NHS delivers for ordinary people.

Mr Watson told the Scottish Parliament's Health Committee it would "contribute to an overdue change of culture in health boards, from an attitude of we know best' to one of openness and consultation".

He added: "The proposed mix of elections and appointment of members will provide greater democratic accountability, while retaining staff and specialist expertise."

Mr Watson rejected criticisms of the cost of running the elections claiming they would be small in comparison with health board expenditure of nearly £8billion.

He added: "Direct elections won't on their own improve public confidence in the NHS, but along with health board moves to properly engage with the public at all levels, they should produce a step change in culture.

"Through high profile campaigns in recent years, members of the public have demonstrated they want to be part of the process of planning local health care."

However, there was further opposition to the proposal from South Lanarkshire council.

In a submission from Harry Stevenson, its executive director of Social Work Resources, the council warned the election of "single issue candidates could bring a narrow focus to discussions at board level".

The government is backing direct elections and has the support of Bill Butler, Anniesland MSP, who tried unsuccessfully to introduce them through a Member's Bill.