§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on current policy regarding transfers of patients from Rampton and Moss Side hospitals to St. Margaret's hospital, Great Barr, Birmingham.
§ Mr. John PattenWhen a special hospital patient is considered by those responsible for his care to be ready to continue hospital treatment in conditions of lesser security the consultant of the local NHS catchment area hospital, or other suitable hospital, is asked to accept the patient on transfer. Decisions to recommend a transfer or to accept a patient on transfer are matters of professional judgment. In the case of patients subject to a restriction order, transfers require the consent of my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department. If the hon. Member has a particular case in mind, I shall be glad to look into it if he will let me have details.