HC Deb 14 November 1988 vol 140 c393W
Mr. Lawrence

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will initiate a review of the law relating to offences arising from mental defect in criminal cases.

Mr. John Patten

I understand that my hon. and learned Friend has in mind a review of the Criminal Procedure (Insanity) Act 1964. I am giving some thought to the operation of this Act, about which the Butler committee made certain recommendations in 1975, but I cannot at present say when there may be an opportunity for amending legislation.