§ 91. Mr. John Brewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many applications have been made to mental health review tribunals in the last two years alleging improper detention of patients; how many formal hearings have taken place; and what has been the result of such applications, both when there has been a formal hearing and when there has not.
§ Mr. EnnalsMental health review tribunals are not concerned with allegations of improper detention, but with applications for review of the need for detention. In 1967 and 1968 2,095 valid applications were made; 1,771 applications were heard in those years, 282 at formal hearings. After formal hearings, tribunals made 60 directions for discharge and 222 decisions not to direct discharge; after informal hearings 189 directions for discharge and 1,300 decisions not to direct discharge.