Mental Health Press Release: Randerson says 'Welcome to Devolution'

3.16.50pm GMT Thu 25th Jan 2007

Today in Health and Social Services Committee Jenny Randerson AM proposed a successful resolution seeking framework powers for Wales within The Mental Health Bill 2006 currently passing through Westminster.

Jenny Randerson, Assembly Member for Cardiff Central said "I am deeply disappointed that the Minister has so far failed to seek powers for Wales to go its own way on mental health. We have been asking for a year now but it is not too late for the Health Minister to follow through on the committee's resolution.

"As a minimum I expect the chance to debate the matter in plenary. All evidence I have seen from organisations as diverse as the Law Society, the GMC, the RCN and Hafal points towards a deeply flawed piece of legislation from the UK government.

"Brian Gibbons cites cross border issues as a problem in going our own way on mental health but if we are to deliver what is best for Wales then cross border issues are the symptoms. Welcome to devolution!

"Scotland has gone its own way and has been praised by many for their considered approach."

Ends/diwedd

Contact: Andrew Sherwood,

Phone/Ffôn: 029 20898324

Fax/Ffacs: 029 20898356

Email/E-Bost: andrew.sherwood@wales.gov.uk

Correspondence to: The National Assembly for Wales, Cardiff Bay, CF99 1NA