§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what plans he has to amend the definition of nearest relative, in section 26 of the Mental Health Act 1983; [90187]
(2) if he will bring forward amendments to the Mental Health Act 1983 to provide, for those people treated under section 131, (a) the right to a second opinion, (b) access to hospital managers' hearings and (c) access to mental health review tribunals; and if he will make a statement. [90185]
§ Mr. HuttonMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced a 'root and branch' review of the Mental Health Act 1983 in July 1998. An expert committee was appointed to advise on the changes necessary, and they will shortly be making their recommendations to Ministers. The committee undertook a full consultation on a wide range of issues. Once the Government have received the expert committee's report, we will draw up final proposals for a new legislative framework and these will be subject to full formal consultation. New mental health legislation will be introduced as soon as it is appropriate to do so.
§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people are currently being treated in psychiatric hospitals under section 131 of the Mental Health Act 1983. [90186]
§ Mr. HuttonSection 131 of the Mental Health Act 1983 concerns informal admissions of patients. It is not a formal detention section. Information on informal admission of psychiatric patients is not available centrally.