§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what new policy proposals she has to reduce the number of inmates and remand prisons who are transferred to mental institutions shortly after their arrest. [20803]
§ Mr. BowisIt is well-established Government policy that offenders suffering from mental disorder should, where necessary, receive care and treatment from the health and social services rather than in the criminal justice system. The transfer to hospital of prisoners requiring specialist psychiatric care plays an important part in this.
The development of services for mentally disordered offenders and others with similar needs is a high priority for the national health service. My Department is working closely with the Home Department in establishing initiatives, such as multi-agency working in courts and the provision of specialist training, to ensure that mentally disordered people who come into contact with the criminal justice system obtain the care they need at the earliest possible stage.