§ 37. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that, of recent years, a much greater use has been made of the one-doctor process of certification than of the two-doctor process for which the law also provides; and whether, pending the introduction of amending legislation, he will use the resources of his Department to give publicity to the existence of the two-doctor process of certification.
§ Mr. VosperTwo medical certificates are required in all cases of certification 885 of mental defectives. In cases of mental illness, relatives or friends of the patient can initiate the procedure involving two medical certificates, and the one certificate procedure can be used only where the duly authorised officer is satisfied that there are no relatives or friends able and willing to initiate action or that the patient is not under proper care and control. The question of further publicity is one which I will take into account when considering the Royal Commission's proposals.
§ Mr. DoddsDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that every week now 400 people are certified under the one-doctor procedure and the doctor does not need to have any special knowledge of mental illness? As the relatives do not know about these things until long after the deed has been done, can he not see the dangers of this system, which the Royal Commission indicated?
§ Mr. VosperThe hon. Member said that the relatives do not know, but it may he that they would prefer to use the one-certificate procedure. In any case, the medical superintendent also examines the patient. In considering whether any action should be taken on the administrative side of the proposals made by the Royal Commission, I will look at this point.