Press Release

 

Embargoed:Tuesday 26th November 2002 00:01 hours

 

Government toPress Ahead with Controversial Legislation

 

 

At a meeting yesterday at theDepartment of Health, the Minister, Jacqui Smith MP, reiterated theGovernments intention to bring forward Mental Health legislation . Thenational charity for people affected by depression Depression Alliance hadrequested an urgent meeting to clarify the Governments plans.

 

Depression Alliances Director, Jim Thomson, said:

 

This Government recently publishedfor consultation a Draft Bill that was unfair, unjust and unworkable. The consultation period was short and tookplace during the summer when many people are away. Despite this, the level and intensity of opposition to the DraftBill was unprecedented, with mental health organisations, medicalprofessionals, the legal profession and human rights organisations, all unitedagainst the proposals. Now the Ministerhas made it clear that Government intends to press ahead, having taken intoaccount the concerns arising from the consultation exercise. On behalf of everyone affected by depression 1 in 5 of the UK population at some point in their lives - we will bewatching closely to ensure that any proposed legislation makes positive changesfor people affected by depression.

 

Notes to Editors

 

  1. Depression Alliance is the leading UK charity for people with depression. We work to relieve and to prevent this treatable condition by providing information, support and understanding to those who are affected by it. We also campaign to raise awareness amongst the general public about the realities of depression.
  2. The meeting with Jaqui Smith was held on 25/11/02 the charitys Chair, Dr Chris Manning and Director, Jim Thomson attended.

 

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