HL Deb 20 January 1992 vol 534 cc566-7

3 p.m.

Lord Harris of Greenwich asked Her Majesty's Government:

In the light of the observations of Judge Bruce Laughland on the case of Regina v. Rooney at the Central Criminal Court what action they propose.

Baroness Hooper

My Lords, there will be a full inquiry into the case. We shall announce its precise nature and remit shortly.

Lord Harris of Greenwich

My Lords, is the noble Baroness aware that I welcome that reply? Is she aware also that the judge at the trial of Mr. Rooney said that the crime was foreseeable and the death of Mrs. Quigley preventable? Further is she aware that Mr. Rooney was taken to the Homerton Hospital by police officers after he had attacked another woman? He was allowed to discharge himself and six days later he murdered Mrs. Quigley in the presence of her two small children. Is the noble Baroness finally aware that this man, on three separate occasions, was taken to a mental hospital after either attacks or threats of attack on other women? In all the circumstances that is an extraordinary situation.

Baroness Hooper

My Lords, it is obviously a sad case and we shall study the papers carefully. However, I expect that any conclusions regarding resources, action taken or the adequacy of the law to deal with them will need to be reviewed in the light of the inquiry. I am sure that noble Lords will understand that I am unable to make comments in detail at this stage.

Lord Carter

My Lords, can the Minister say whether this is an isolated case or whether similar cases have occurred where the papers have been sent to the relevant department?

Baroness Hooper

My Lords, in the nature of things I assume that such matters may happen from time to time. In each and every case where any problem is found, clearly remedial action is taken to ensure that it does not happen again. I am certainly not aware of any other cases.

Lord Harris of Greenwich

My Lords, will the noble Baroness undertake that a copy of the report of any inquiry will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses of Parliament?

Baroness Hooper

My Lords, indeed. That is normal practice.

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