HC Deb 15 December 1994 vol 251 cc805-6W
Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what proposals he has to strengthen the guidelines for the care of those sectioned under the Mental Health Act 1983, transferred to out-patient psychiatric care and care in the community prior to the ending of the time period covered by the section order.

Mr. Redwood

Guidance already exists under the Mental Health Act Code of Practice, pursuant to section 118 of the Act, the most recent revision of which was published in 1993. Chapter 27 of the code details the responsibilities of those involved in the possible discharge from hospital of a patient who has previously been detained under the Act. In particular, section 117 of the Act places a statutory duty upon health and social service authorities to provide aftercare.