Answer:
D. 7
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the information provided within the question it can be said that they need to appoint a total of 7 outside board members to achieve board independence. This is because in order to achieve board independence the board needs to consist of more members that are not employees than those who are. This is because votes need to be made in accordance to what is best for the company and shareholders, which may not always be best for the employees. Therefore when voting the employees may be biased.