§ 56. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement in respect of the case of Mrs. Thornton who has been detained in a mental home for the past three years, details of which have been sent to him by the hon. Member for Erith and Crayford; and if a decision has yet been reached in regard to the request for an independent medical investigation.
§ Mr. TurtonThis lady was received into Cane Hill Hospital on 1st April, 1953, under the authority of a summary reception order made by a justice of the peace for the County of London. The documents relating to her case conformed with statutory requirements and showed that she was clearly in need of care and treatment in a mental hospital. She has recently been sent upon trial to an aftercare hostel with a view to testing her fitness for discharge. The relative who has applied for an independent medical examination has been advised of the statutory procedure.