Clause 32
Mental Health Bill [Lords]
3:30 pm
Ann Winterton (Congleton, Conservative)
There is a whole range of factors, which is why we want to monitor the issues carefully. It is important to be clear that there have been inquiries that have recommended the use of CTOs. The John Barrett inquiry is an example. The report on that inquiry said:
“In our view, the only means of securing John Barrett’s compliance with treatment as an out-patient would have been a community treatment order, which is not available under the Mental Health Act.”
It is important to recognise that that recommendation was made, and to recognise that if CTOs can achieve, for example, greater compliance with medication and greater contact with health care professionals, there would be a reduction in requirements relating to the sort of person who is continually in and out of detention. We should consider all the factors that people want to have considered.
I shall address in due course why we should reverse the amendments that the Opposition have supported. The restrictions have big implications—particularly for potentially suicidal or self-harming patients.