§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will set up an independent inquiry concerning the case of Mr. Stanley Gregory, who was injured recently whilst in the care of Cartrefi Cymru; what proposals he has to set out guidelines on staffing for community care; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesMr. Stanley Gregory, was unfortunately injured in an accident at his home in Forden, Powys on Thursday 22 October 1992.
I understand that immediately following the accident Cartrefi Cymru the organisation employed to provide care and support for Mr. Gregory initiated an investigation into the circumstances that led up to the incident. That report has been made available to the Welsh Office, Powys health authority and Powys social services department. I further understand that a joint investigation will be set up immediately between the social services department, the health authority and Cartrefi Cymru further to investigate the incident, review procedures and training programmes and make recommendations for the future in order that such accidents are prevented. In addition, Cartrefi Cymru is also reviewing its own procedures and guidelines. Mr. Gregory has been provided with, and will continue to receive, independent advocate advice as to his rights and position in this matter. Until these investigations and reports are finalised, it would be premature to instigate an independent inquiry. I will require the findings to be sent to the Welsh Office and will take any appropriate action if we are not satisfied as to the findings and conclusions.
Policy and guidelines on the support and accommodation for people with a mental handicap are set out in Welsh Office circular 1/91, a copy of which is in the Library of the House.