HC Deb 21 March 1929 vol 226 cc1838-9
30. Sir R. THOMAS

asked the Minister of Health whether he will set up a committee to advise upon the feasibility of a policy of segregation of mentally and/or morally unfit and subnormal persons?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Chamberlain)

The Mental Deficiency Acts of 1913 and 1927 already provide means by which mental defectives, including moral defectives within the meaning of the Acts, can be segregated or placed under guardianship or supervision. I see no necessity for the appointment of a committee for the purpose suggested.

Sir R. THOMAS

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that half the crime which is committed nowadays is due to lack of proper segregation of these people?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

If the hon. Member will read my answer, he will see that provision is already made for those cases.