Rob,here are the numbers for the Merseyside Police Authority.

Nine local councillors from across Merseyside.
Eight independent members.These posts are open to anyone living or working on Merseyside.One being a magistrate
Plus support staff based at Police Headquarters.
Seventeen people on the committee plus support staff (number not known).Why do we need all these people.It must be three members of each party why can we not have just one of each 1Lab 1Con 1Lib. and why eight independents.I dont know why they just did not have a cull of this authority.I notice that some as you say are under the banner of a political party yet they will have to swear on oat that they will not be party political.
These people who have put themselves forward what are they working at at present are they out of work and if so why.If they are so clever why are they not in suitable employment at present.
Regards.
Jim.B.