§ Mr. Wheelerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what further reports he has received on the mental condition of Peter Sutcliffe; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrittanI have received recent reports from which I am satisfied that Sutcliffe's mental condition has seriously deteriorated and that he is now suffering from a grave form of mental illness. He could now represent a serious danger to prison staff and others. The reports indicate that he requires treatment which can only suitably be given in a hospital.
103WI have therefore directed Sutcliffe's removal to Broadmoor hospital, under section 47 of the Mental Health Act 1983, and he was removed to the hospital today.
I am satisfied that the most stringent security precautions will be taken at Broadmoor hospital, where there is considerable experience of treating dangerous patients in secure conditions.
If Sutcliffe's mental health improves, he may be sent back to prison to continue his sentence.