Forum Brief: Mental Health Bill

David Blunkett has dismissed the fears of campaigners against the controversial plans for new mental health legislation.

Forum Response: Disability Rights Commission

Bert Massie, chairman of the Disability Rights Commission, told ePolitix.com: "There are some proposals which we welcome but others which clearly discriminate against people with mental health problems.

"However, the Bill does not meet the principles of non-discrimination and might contravene the Human Rights Act."

"We need a new approach which ensures that only people who are incapable of making informed decisions are subject to compulsory treatment."

Forum Response: SANE

Marjorie Wallace, chief executive for SANE, told ePolitix.com: "The home secretary's defence of controversial proposals in the draft Mental Health Bill was typically robust.

"SANE would have been more reassured if his platform and commitment had been shared by the secretary of state for health, Mr Alan Milburn, to ensure that the proposals will help prevent the need for compulsion and not to act as a public safety shield hiding threadbare core services and continuing neglect."