HC Deb 29 April 1958 vol 587 cc178-9
28. Mrs. Mann

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what precautions are taken to ensure public safety before detainees for criminal lunacy are released from mental hospitals.

Mr Maclay

I assume that the hon. Lady is referring to persons found insane and ordered by the courts to be detained during Her Majesty's pleasure. In considering such cases I examine not only full reports by the Medical Commissioners of the General Board of Control, who have had the patient under observation during his detention, but also the whole history of the case and the proposed arrangements for the patient's future, which generally include further supervision by responsible guardians and by the Board of Control.

Mrs. Mann

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that one patient was released in December, 1957, and by October, 1958, had murdered an old lady? Is he aware that between December and October the patient regularly failed to report? How did the patient get away with failing to report?

Mr. Maclay

I should like the hon. Lady to send me details of that case.