§ 76. Sir KINGSLEY WOODasked the Homo Secretary whether in the case of the prisoner tried recently at the Kent Assizes and found guilty, but insane, of the murder of a boy aged six years, a report, on 3rd September, 1912, was made to the Prison Commissioners by the medical officer certifying he was mentally deficient; and what action was taken on such report?
§ Mr. SHORTTSuch a, report was made in September, 1912, and before the man was discharged from prison on the expiration of the sentence which he was then serving, the report was communicated to the police of the district in which he resided—so that, if he should again be charged, the Court might be informed of his mental condition. Before the passing of the Mental Deficiency Act this was the only action possible that could be taken in such a case.
§ 77. Sir K. WOODasked the Home Secretary how many institutions have been established under Section 35 of the Mental Deficiency Act for defectives of dangerous and violent propensities, and the number that are available to-day for such cases?
§ Mr. SHORTTThree such institutions have been provided by the Board of Control. The first, at Farmfield, is intended for females only, and is fully available. The second, at Warwick, is available for females only, but males will also be received there as soon as staff and houses can be provided. The third, at Moss Side, is at present in the occupation of the War Office, but the Board of Control hope that it will be available in a few months for the reception both of male and female patients.
§ Sir K. WOODIs it therefore the fact that at the present time there is no home available for men of this dangerous character?
§ Mr. SHORTTThat appears to be so.