§ Mr. John HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health in how many cases since the establishment of the Mental Health Act Commission a second-opinion-approved doctor has disagreed with the treatment plan of the responsible medical officer; and, in each case, on what grounds.
§ Mrs. Currie[holding answer 4 November 1988]: The number of cases since the establishment of the Mental Health Act Commission in which a second-opinion-approved doctor has declined to issue a certificate under sections 57 or 58 of the Mental Health Act 1983 is not known.
For the two year period 1 July 1985 to 30 June 1987, there were 5845 "second opinions" given under section 58 of the Mental Health Act 1983 and 54 "second opinions" given under section 57.
In 4 to 6 per cent. of the cases a certificate was not issued. The reasons for non-issue of certificates are not available.