HL Deb 31 October 1957 vol 205 c682

2.44 p.m.

THE EARL OF LUCAN

My Lords, on behalf of my noble friend Lord Douglas of Barloch, who regrets that he is prevented by doctor's orders from attending the House, I beg to ask the Question that stands in his name.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether there is any means by which justices of the peace appointed to act as judicial authorities under the Lunacy Acts, 1890 to 1911, and the Mental Deficiency Act, 1913, can be compensated for injuries inflicted by mental patients whom they interview in the course of their duties.]

LORD CHESHAM

My Lords, I know of no statutory authority for paying compensation to a justice of the peace for injuries sustained in the circumstances mentioned by the noble Lord, or in the performance of any of the other duties which fall to the lot of justices of the peace. So far as Her Majesty's Government are aware, no need has yet been felt for any such provision, which would in any case call for legislation.