HC Deb 22 May 1958 vol 588 cc1471-2
6. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what further consideration he has given to the legal aspect of suicide and attempted suicide; if he is aware that the law of England and Wales stands almost alone in regarding such acts as criminal; and if he will make a statement.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department and Lord Privy Seal (Mr. R. A. Butler)

I am pursuing my study of this problem, which has practical aspects of no less importance than its legal aspects. I am not yet ready to reach a conclusion upon it.

Mr. Robinson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, since the last Question I put to him on this subject, a joint committee, set up by the British Medical Association and the Magistrates' Association to examine this subject, has reported in favour of a change in the law in the direction which I am suggesting, and that this report is unanimously accepted by the Council of the Magistrates' Association? In view of this weighty opinion, will not the Home Secretary make an early decision in this matter?

Mr. Butler

I am aware of the report to which the hon. Gentleman draws my attention. I am also aware of various other considerations. I think this is a very difficult subject, but I will undertake to consider what the hon. Gentleman has said.

Mr. Gordon Walker

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that this is a matter which needs as early consideration and decision as possible? Would not he also agree that there are no real religious grounds for our law as to attempted suicide, and that this was due to a judicial decision, I think about a hundred years ago? Is there not a great deal to be said for bringing our law into line with that of other countries?

Mr. Butler

I have carefully studied the position in other countries and also the statistics of the convictions. For example, in 1956, proceedings were brought in 613 cases out of 5,000 or more, and over 90 per cent. of these charges resulted in probation for the person concerned, and very few in sentences of imprisonment. I have also considered that in a minority of cases, without the power we have now, we might not be able to achieve the desired results, so that, on the facts, it is a very difficult question to decide.

Mr. Robinson

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that other provisions of the law in regard to breach of the peace and mental health are quite sufficient to deal with the cases he has in mind?

Mr. Butler

The Government's approach to mental health, as the House knows, is at present actual, and does bring all this subject to the fore. It is against that background that I am examining it.