HC Deb 05 July 1984 vol 63 cc223-4W
Mr. Alex Carlile

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether prison officers without formal nursing qualifications are permitted to administer psychotropic medicines to prisoners; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hurd

Such medication, which may be given only on the instructions of a medical officer, may be administered by hospital officers who do not have nursing qualifications but who will have received appropriate training.

Mr. Alex Carlile

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what instructions and standing orders are in force in the prison service concerning the administration of psychotropic and hypnotic medicines affecting the central nervous system by injection.

Mr. Hurd

None. Such matters are for the clinical judgment of the medical officer concerned.

Mr. Alex Carlile

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many doses of psychotropic medicines, hypnotic medicines and medicines affecting the central nervous system were administered by injection during 1983 in prisons and youth custody centres; and if he will give a breakdown between establishments.

Mr. Hurd

This information is not readily available, and I shall write to the hon. and learned Member.