§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, in exercising his powers to commit persons to mental hospitals under section 47 of the Mental Health Act 1983, he takes any account of their political activities; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorNo account is taken of a person's political activities. The matters on which my right hon. and learned Friend has to be satisfied before he may direct the transfer to hospital of a person serving a sentence of imprisonment are set out in section 47 of the Mental Health Act 1983.