§ 12. Mr. Bellengerasked the Minister of Health what report he has received from the Board of Control relative to the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the recent escape of two male patients from Rampton State Institution; and the recommendations contained therein.
§ Mr. VosperI have received a report from the Board of Control showing how these patients escaped by means of an improvised pass-key. The Board is taking measures to improve the security arrangements including the conversion of all locks to "detector" pattern; the examination, with expert advice, of the top-locks, with a view to improvement in pattern; a special effort to meet staff shortages; and the use of the hospital siren to warn the public in the immediate vicinity of the escape of a dangerous patient. Representatives of the police authorities and of the Board are meeting tomorrow to consider what further measures are practicable for warning the public of such an escape.
§ Mr. BellengerThe Minister's reply in relation to security measures seems to be satisfactory, but is he aware that there are other factors at this hospital which require investigation? There is a certain amount of discontent amongst the male nursing staff at some of the conditions in the hospital. Is it not possible for a representative of his Department—other than a representative of the Board of Control, who visits the hospital only twice a year—to go there and see what has happened?
§ Mr. VosperThe best answer that I can give is that either the Parliamentary Secretary or I will pay a visit to Rampton as soon as possible.