HC Deb 15 June 1921 vol 143 cc444-5W
Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Minister of Health how soon he proposes to have posted up in the waiting-rooms of public asylums the provisions of Section 79 of the Lunacy Act, 1890. which have hitherto been hidden from the friends and relatives of patients?

Sir A. MOND

The Board of Control have notified all Visiting Committees that they propose to make a rule requiring the inclusion of the substance of this Section in the "Regulations as to Visitation" furnished by all asylums to the friends of patients. There is, however, no foundation for the suggestion contained in the last part of the question.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Minister of Health whether the Lunacy Board of Control has recently issued a Regulation putting a stop to the certification of voluntary boarders while inmates of licensed houses or registered hospitals; and, in view of the fact that no procedure for certification has been prescribed by the Lunacy Act of 1890 applicable to the circumstances of such boarders, what has been the nature of the steps required to be taken under Section 20 of the Act of 1891, when certification has hitherto been directed by the Board?

Sir A. MOND

The hon. and gallant Member is under a misapprehension, and no such Regulation has been issued. No steps have been taken by the Board, and none are needed, to give effect to Section 20 of the Lunacy Act, 1891. The methods of certification are laid down in the Acts.