§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to investigate security arrangements at the Royal Alexandra hospital in Paisley; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 10 May 1991]: Security arrangements at the Royal Alexandra hospital are a matter for Argyll and Clyde health board who have been asked for a report on the situation.
§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what guidelines the Scottish Office has issued regarding security in hospitals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 10 May 1991]: Security arrangements in hospitals are the responsibility of local managers. To assist them in the difficult task of providing proper security arrangements, the National Association of Health Authorities published a security manual in 1984. The manual includes practical guidance on the development of a security policy, appointment of security staff, the security of patients, staff and property, the prevention of trespass and intruder detection. It has been commended to health boards by my Department. It is being revised and copies will be re-issued later this year.
Health boards were reminded in November 1990 of the need to keep their security arrangements under review and were encouraged to establish hospital watch schemes.