47. Mr. Dugdaleasked the Minister of Health how many applicants seeking admission recently to All Saints Hospital, Birmingham, as voluntary patients were informed that there was no bed available; and how many of these applicants were later admitted as three-day order cases.
§ Mr. R. ThompsonI regret the information is not available.
Mr. DugdaleIs the hon. Gentleman aware that, so far as I know, there is quite a large number? Is it not rather unfortunate that this method should be used? Would it not be better for them to come in as voluntary patients than on a three-day order?
§ Mr. ThompsonThat is quite understandable, but I understand from the local health authorities mainly concerned that, on occasion, there have been some difficulties in securing the admission of voluntary patients. There is no question here of a three-day order under Section 20 of the Lunacy Act having been used except in the interests of patients and in conformity with the requirements of the Section.