§ Mr. TOUCHEasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether 278W Charles Pritchard, who has been confined for over twelve years in Broadmoor Criminal Lunatic Asylum for sending a threatening letter, has petitioned at any time during the past year that he may be handed over to the Salvation Army or, this year, that his condition may be inquired into; whether such petitions have to be recommended by the governor; and whether, if the governor withholds his recommendation, the petition is not entertained?
§ Mr. McKENNAThis patient has more than once during the past year applied for his discharge from Broadmoor Asylum. Having regard to all the circumstances of the case, I have not felt able to comply with his request. Reports from the superintendent of the asylum form an important part of the materials for consideration in such cases, but are not necessarily the determining factor.
§ Mr. TOUCHEasked whether, during the twelve and a half years for which Charles Pritchard has been confined in Broadmoor Criminal Asylum, he has ever injured or attempted to injure any person; whether his behaviour has been good; and if his detention is continued on account of any acts or because of opinions formed as to his state of mind?
§ Mr. McKENNANo acts of violence have been reported on Pritchard's part, but his behaviour cannot be described as good. His morbid mental condition makes it unsafe to authorise his discharge. The hon. Member will readily understand that the letters he writes afford insufficient material for forming an opinion on this point.