§ Dr. Godmanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress is being made with the preparation of the code of practice to be issued under the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984; if he plans any change in the present position relating to guardianship; and what arrangements will be made for interested bodies to comment on a draft of the code.
§ Mr. John MacKayConsideration is being given to the preparation of a Code of Practice for the guidance of medical practitioners and others on the detention and discharge of patients under the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984, and the medical treatment of such patients, the Scottish Division of the Royal College of Psychiatrists recently expressed the view that the Scottish code should be acceptable to all those working in the psychiatric field., and it is our intention to consult interested bodies on the provisions of the code, as indeed the 1984 Act requires. My right hon. and learned Friend has no plans to make any changes in the provisions of the 1984 Act relating to guardianship.