§ 9. Mr. Proctorasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he next intends to meet the chairman of the Mental Health Act Commission.
§ Mr. HayhoeI have no present plans to meet the chairman.
§ Mr. ProctorIs my right hon. Friend satisfied with the speed of the investigation of complaints which the commission decides to investigate? When my right hon. Friend next meets the chairman of the commission, will he consider with the chairman instituting a clear investigation into the complaints procedure?
§ Mr. HayhoeAs I have said, I have no plans to meet the chairman, but if I do plan to meet him I shall certainly bear in mind what my hon. Friend said.
§ Ms. HarmanWill the Minister confirm to the House that he is aware of the tragic murder of Isabel Schwartz, a dedicated psychiatric social worker at Bexley hospital, who was murdered by a former client of hers, Sharon Campbell? Did the Minister know that Sharon Campbell was discharged against her wishes and did not get the appropriate treatment, care and support in the community that her desperate illness required? Will the Minister set up an inquiry into the events leading up to Isabel's murder? Will he recognise that there are a number, albeit a small number, of seriously mentally ill people who, if they are discharged under the community care policies and do not receive the support and treatment that their illness requires, will be a danger to themselves and to the community?
§ Mr. HayhoeThat has nothing to do with whether I have plans to meet the chairman of the commission, but I certainly appreciate the seriousness and sincerity with which the hon. Lady has raised this matter, and I will give it careful consideration.