§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what are the procedures followed by his Department regarding prison inmates who are being recommended for transfer to Broadmoor hospital; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggThe following are the present procedures.
If a prison medical officer considers that an inmate is suffering from a form of mental disorder of such nature or degree that he should be removed to hospital for treatment under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 1983, arrangements are made for the inmate to be examined by a second medical officer. In cases where the prison medical officer considers that treatment would be required in conditions of maximum security, the second medical officer would be a consultant psychiatrist at one of the four special hospitals. If both doctors agree as to the nature or degree of mental disorder reports would be submitted to the Department of Health's admissions panel. If admission is agreed the panel would consider which of the four special hospitals, including Broadmoor, would be appropriate. On being satisfied that the statutory criteria have been met, my right hon. Friend can then sign a warrant directing the inmate's transfer.