Former MP appointed Cornwall NHS Trust chair

Lord Matthew Taylor is set to take over next year

A former MP has been announced as the new chair of the Cornwall NHS Trust.

Lord Matthew Taylor of Goss Moor will take over from Margaret Schwarz, who is leaving at the end of the year having served the maximum term allowed in the role.

Lord Taylor was the MP for Truro and St Austell for more than 20 years and became a member of the House of Lords in 2010.

He said he felt "privileged" to take on the role as a "passionate advocate" for the NHS.

He added: "I am, like everyone across Cornwall, reliant on and hugely grateful for the fantastic work the more than 4,000 dedicated staff put in day in and day out all year round.

"It will be a real privilege to work with them to meet the challenges of delivering the highest quality services possible across every community."

Trust chief executive Debbie Richards thanked Ms Schwarz for her "outstanding contribution" and said she "wished her the best for the future".

She said: "I am delighted to be welcoming Matthew to the trust.

"His passion to ensure a great experience for all our patients and staff was apparent throughout the recruitment process."

Lord Taylor is due to chair his first board of directors meeting in January 2026.