HC Deb 21 October 1971 vol 823 cc162-3W
Mr. Golding

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will set up a committee of inquiry into the methods by which psychiatric reports are obtained on persons who are charged with offences.

Mr. Carlisle

My right hon. Friend has very much in mind the desirability of facilitating the provision of psychiatric reports in circumstances which will diminish the need for remands in custody. The Home Office has been exploring various possibilities in consultation with those concerned, and the matter will be further considered by the joint working party which has been set up, after discussion with the Magistrates' Association, to examine various aspects of bail procedure.