HC Deb 08 May 1967 vol 746 cc1042-3
5 and 6. Mrs. Knight

asked the Minister of Health (1) if he is satisfied that the accommodation at present available in this country for criminals suffering from psychological disorders is sufficient and adequate; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what steps are being taken to ensure that the open door policy for mental institutions is not endangering the public.

Mr. K. Robinson

No hospital accommodation is provided solely for offenders, and comparatively few mentally disordered patients require treatment under conditions of security. I recognise that, in the non-custodial environment associated with modern psychiatry, it is not always easy to make satisfactory arrangements for this small minority, and I am considering the problem.

Mrs. Knight

Is the Minister aware that a man convicted in the Birmingham area of sexual offences, and of grievous bodily harm charges, has absconded many times from the mental hospital to which he has been sent, and that the last time he was free he assaulted a young girl? Would not the Minister agree that for the sake of the peace of mind of the public these people ought not to be detained in institutions from which it is easy to escape?

Mr. Robinson

I am aware of the case to which the hon. Lady has referred, but I think she should recognise that the open door policy has undoubtedly conferred benefits on the vast majority of psychiatric patients. Hospital authorities are aware of the risks of the indiscriminate application of such a policy, and of the need to make adequate provision for security in appropriate cases, but a high standard of security can be achieved without bolts and bars, by active treatment and skilled supervision.

Dame Irene Ward

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are certain aspects of the Act which are causing great anxiety? Is he aware that what he said about an inquiry being made will be very welcome? Can he say how long the inquiry is likely to take?

Mr. Robinson

No, Sir. We are inquiring into the matter urgently, with a view perhaps to administrative, rather than legislative, changes.

Mrs. Braddock

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that when a patient is going to be discharged the requirements of the Mental Health Act, 1959, are being adhered to, namely, that there is liaison between the hospital, the general practitioner, and the mental welfare services of the local authority?

Mr. Robinson

I think I can assure my hon. Friend that this is generally recognised by psychiatrists who work in mental hospitals.

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