HC Deb 22 November 1938 vol 341 cc1548-9W
Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the difficulties that have arisen in connection with the Matrimonial Causes Act through the failure or refusal of a mental hospital visiting committee to safeguard a medical superintendent by giving him instructions respecting the answering of reasonable inquiries respecting divorce proceedings; and whether he will take steps to avoid any such difficulties in future?

Mr. Bernays

The Board of Control have suggested to the Mental Hospitals Association that the position of the Medical Superintendent might be safeguarded if the Visiting Committee give him definite instructions to answer reasonable inquiries. My right hon. Friend is not, however, empowered to give Visiting Committees any direction in this matter.