HC Deb 18 May 1904 vol 135 cc179-80
MR. CORRIE GRANT (Warwickshire, Rugby)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that Mrs. Helen Meredith was detained in Bethlehem Royal Hospital from 17th August to 25th September, 1903, without being taken before or visited by a judicial authority as prescribed by Section 8 of the Lunacy Act, 1890, although she signed, immediately on her admission on the 17th August, 1903, a notice of her desire to be taken before or visited by a justice, Judge, or magistrate having jurisdiction in the district within which she was detained; and, if so, will he say who is responsible for this violation of the Lunacy Act; and what steps will lie take to prevent a repetition of it.

MR. AKERS-DOUGLAS

I understand, on inquiry, that the facts are as stated in the Question, but that the delay was due to causes for which the hospital authorities were not responsible. They forwarded the notice given by the lady in question without delay to the clerk to the justices, and it was in his proceedings for securing the attendance of a justice that the difficulty and delay occurred. I am making further inquiries with a view to ascertaining whether any steps can be taken to prevent the recurrence of such a case.

MR. CORRIE GRANT

Will the right hon. Gentleman give me an opportunity of hearing what is the explanation of the justices?

MR. AKERS-DOUGLAS

Yes, I will certainly communicate the answer to the hon. Member.