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MH, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Department of Health: CA 3 Dec 2004

The patient had been detained under the Act and was incapable of making an application for her freedom. Held: There was a duty on the state to ensure that mechanisms were made available to a patient to apply to review her continued detention where she was herself incompetent to make such an application. Having been … Continue reading MH, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Department of Health: CA 3 Dec 2004

Barker v Barking Havering and Brentwood Community Healthcare NHS Trust (Warley Hospital) and Anorther: CA 30 Jul 1998

A person who is liable to be detained in a hospital by virtue of an application or order under that Act may either be actually detained or given leave of absence. While on leave of absence it may well be that the patient’s disorder is not such that he needs to be detained in hospital. … Continue reading Barker v Barking Havering and Brentwood Community Healthcare NHS Trust (Warley Hospital) and Anorther: CA 30 Jul 1998

Regina v Riverside Mental Health Trust ex parte Huzzey: QBD 18 May 1998

Managers considering an application by relatives for discharge of patient were not bound by the doctor’s report, but could go outside the criteria set out in the section to see whether it was safe to release the patient. Citations: Times 18-May-1998 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 3 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Health Updated: 18 November … Continue reading Regina v Riverside Mental Health Trust ex parte Huzzey: QBD 18 May 1998

Regina v Broadmoor Special Hospital Authority and Secretary of State for Department of Health ex parte S, H and D (2): CA 5 Feb 1998

Persons detained under Mental Health Acts could be subject to random non-consensual searches even if this went against medical opinion. The power to seclude a patient within the hospital is implied from the power to detain as a ‘necessary ingredient flowing from a power of detention for treatment.’ Judges: Auld LJ Citations: Gazette 26-Feb-1998, Times … Continue reading Regina v Broadmoor Special Hospital Authority and Secretary of State for Department of Health ex parte S, H and D (2): CA 5 Feb 1998

Welton, Welton v North Cornwall District Council: CA 17 Jul 1996

The defendant authority appealed a finding that it was liable in negligence from the conduct of one of its environmental health officers. The plaintiff had set out to refurbish and open a restaurant. He said the officer gave him a list of things he must do. He had done them, but the licence was still … Continue reading Welton, Welton v North Cornwall District Council: CA 17 Jul 1996

B v Croydon Health Authority: CA 30 Nov 1994

The feeding by tube of a mental patient who was unable and unwilling to consent can remain treatment, and within the decision of the doctors. In the context of whether the force-feeding an anorexic was authorised by section 63, the Court of Appeal held that treatment falling within the definition in section 145(1) was ‘treatment … Continue reading B v Croydon Health Authority: CA 30 Nov 1994

Regina v Secretary of State for Home Department ex parte H and Others, Regina v Same ex parte Hickey: CA 29 Jul 1994

A discretionary life prisoner who had been transferred to a mental hospital is not automatically eligible for a certificate under the section. The right conferred on a discretionary life prisoner by section 34 of the 1991 Act did not extend to those who were also detained under the MHA by reason of transfer and restriction … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for Home Department ex parte H and Others, Regina v Same ex parte Hickey: CA 29 Jul 1994

Regina v Kirklees Borough Council ex parte C (A Minor): CA 12 Apr 1993

A Local Authority may admit a minor in care to a mental hospital for assessment or treatment. Section 131 merely preserves or confirms the common law and previous law. Consent requires proof of conduct and a reasoning capacity. Judges: Lloyd LJ Citations: Ind Summary 12-Apr-1993, [1993] FLR 187 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 131 Jurisdiction: … Continue reading Regina v Kirklees Borough Council ex parte C (A Minor): CA 12 Apr 1993

Regina v Cannons Park Mental Health Review Tribunal, Ex Parte A: CA 2 Mar 1994

It was not unlawful for a patient to be detained for treatment, even though he was untreatable, and unwilling to be treated. A Mental Health tribunal appeal was to be allowed where patient was re-admitted. Citations: Gazette 08-Jun-1994, Gazette 30-Mar-1994, Times 02-Mar-1994 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 72(1)(b) Jurisdiction: England and Wales Citing: Appeal from … Continue reading Regina v Cannons Park Mental Health Review Tribunal, Ex Parte A: CA 2 Mar 1994

AEI Rediffusion Music Ltd v Phonographic Performance Ltd: CA 1 Feb 1999

The copyright tribunal was given a wide discretion for the awarding of costs on applications made to it for licenses. The nature of the applications and the different basis makes it dangerous to import rules for awards from the general rules on costs. The Copyright Tribunal was wrong to award costs on an award to … Continue reading AEI Rediffusion Music Ltd v Phonographic Performance Ltd: CA 1 Feb 1999

Modaresi, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Others: CA 23 Nov 2011

The appellant had been detained under the 1983 Act. Her appeal had been declined as out of time, and she now appealed against rejection of her request for judicial review. Held: The appeal failed, even though the application to the tribunal should have been treated by it as in time, and the claim against the … Continue reading Modaresi, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Others: CA 23 Nov 2011

St George’s Healthcare National Health Service Trust v S, Regina v Collins and Others ex parte S: CA 8 May 1998

The authority wanted S to be admitted to hospital, if necessary against her will. She was pregnant and wanted to have a natural birth, even at great risk to herself and her baby. She had refused medical treatment for eclampsia. The caesarian had by now been carried out against her will under court order. Held: … Continue reading St George’s Healthcare National Health Service Trust v S, Regina v Collins and Others ex parte S: CA 8 May 1998

Modaresi, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Others: Admn 3 Mar 2011

The claimant sought judicial review of her detention under section 2 of the 1983 Act. Held: The request was rejected. The tribunal had been correct to treat the original application as out of time. The Secretary of State’s decision was neither unreasonable nor in breach of her rights under the Convention, and an isolated failure … Continue reading Modaresi, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Others: Admn 3 Mar 2011

Airedale NHS Trust v Bland: HL 4 Feb 1993

Procedures on Withdrawal of Life Support Treatment The patient had been severely injured in the Hillsborough disaster, and had come to be in a persistent vegetative state (PVS). The doctors sought permission to withdraw medical treatment. The Official Solicitor appealed against an order of the Court of Appeal permitting the action. Held: The appeal failed. … Continue reading Airedale NHS Trust v Bland: HL 4 Feb 1993

Broadmoor Hospital Authority v Robinson: QBD 12 Oct 1998

A secure hospital’s right to prevent a package or letter being sent out by a patient did not extend to allowing a restriction on publication or recovery of a book manuscript once it had already left the hospital. Judges: Poole J Citations: Times 15-Oct-1998 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 134 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Citing: … Continue reading Broadmoor Hospital Authority v Robinson: QBD 12 Oct 1998

In Re Hughes Deceased: ChD 8 Jan 1999

The deceased had made a will providing for her daughter and charities. She became ill, and lost capacity, and then her daughter died. Her son applied for a statutory will. This was ordered and prepared, but she died before the court could confirm that it could be sealed. The son applied for an order allowing … Continue reading In Re Hughes Deceased: ChD 8 Jan 1999

SR, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal: Admn 14 Dec 2005

The patient had been detained under section 3. He applied to challenge his detention, but before the hearing, he was accepted on to a programme for supervision following his intended release the day before the hearing. His solicitors notified the tribunal of his change in status, but now appealed their refusal to decide his application. … Continue reading SR, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal: Admn 14 Dec 2005

D’Souza v Director of Public Prosecutions: HL 15 Oct 1992

The police went to detain the appellant under the 1983 Act. To do so they entered the property against her wishes. She resisted detention, and now appealed her conviction for assaulting the Police officers in the execution of their duty, saying that the entry was unlawful, and that detention under the 1983 Act was not … Continue reading D’Souza v Director of Public Prosecutions: HL 15 Oct 1992

Regina (DJ) v Mental Health Review Tribunal; Regina (AN) v Mental Health Review Tribunal (Northern Region): Admn 11 Apr 2005

Each applicant sought judicial review of the refusal of the tribunal to authorise their release from detention under the 1983 Act, saying that the Tribunal had accepted evidence to a lower standard of proof. Held: Neither the criminal standard of proof nor the level of proof set down in Addington applied. To raise the standard … Continue reading Regina (DJ) v Mental Health Review Tribunal; Regina (AN) v Mental Health Review Tribunal (Northern Region): Admn 11 Apr 2005

Mersey Care NHS Trust, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal and others: Admn 22 Jul 2004

Proceedings before the Mental Health Review Tribnal had been very nearly all held in private. The patient, Ian Brady sought to have his hearing in public. Held: Beatson J approved the Tribunal’s reasons forfind that their privacy rules were a proper and proportionate departure from the principle of open justice and thus compatible with article … Continue reading Mersey Care NHS Trust, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal and others: Admn 22 Jul 2004

Peabody Donation Fund v Sir Lindsay Parkinson and Co Ltd: HL 18 Oct 1983

Architects proposed a system of flexible drains for a site, but the contractors persuaded them to accept rigid drains which once laid proved inadequate at considerable cost. The local authority had permitted the departure from the plans. Held: The true question to found negligence was whether the particular defendant owed the particular plaintiff a duty … Continue reading Peabody Donation Fund v Sir Lindsay Parkinson and Co Ltd: HL 18 Oct 1983

Regina v East London and the City Mental Health NHS Trust and Another ex parte Von Brandenburg (Aka Hanley): HL 13 Nov 2003

The patient was ordered to be discharged and released from hospital. The tribunal making the order had not accepted the medical recommendations. His release was deferred pending the finding of accommodation, but in the meantime, a social worker applied for his re-admission. Held: The approved social worker could not apply in these circumstances unless he … Continue reading Regina v East London and the City Mental Health NHS Trust and Another ex parte Von Brandenburg (Aka Hanley): HL 13 Nov 2003

PD, Regina (on the Application of) v West Midlands and North West Mental Health Review Tribunal: Admn 22 Oct 2003

The claimant was detained as a mental patient. He complained that a consultant employed by the NHS Trust which detained him, also sat on the panel of the tribunal which heard the review of his detention. Held: Such proceedings did engage the applicant’s right to a fair trial. The issue was whether a fair-minded and … Continue reading PD, Regina (on the Application of) v West Midlands and North West Mental Health Review Tribunal: Admn 22 Oct 2003

Munjaz v Mersey Care National Health Service Trust And the Secretary of State for Health, the National Association for Mental Health (Mind) Respondent interested;: CA 16 Jul 2003

The claimant was a mental patient under compulsory detention, and complained that he had been subjected to periods of seclusion. Held: The appeal succeeded. The hospital had failed to follow the appropriate Code of Practice. The Code was not obligatory, but following it would generally ensure that a patient’s rights were not infringed. It recognised … Continue reading Munjaz v Mersey Care National Health Service Trust And the Secretary of State for Health, the National Association for Mental Health (Mind) Respondent interested;: CA 16 Jul 2003

T and others v Mental Health Review Tribunal and G: Admn 22 Feb 2002

The applicant’s former partner, G, had been detained under the Act. She had obtained an injunction to keep him away, but whilst exercising staying contact with her child, he had killed his own parents, and was now detained. The tribunal had ordered his conditional release. She sought a copy of the decision, and now sought … Continue reading T and others v Mental Health Review Tribunal and G: Admn 22 Feb 2002

Regina v Managers of South Western Hospital and Another, Ex Parte M: QBD 24 Mar 1993

The patient was detained on the application of an AMHP. In purported pursuance of section 11(4) the AMHP had consulted the patient’s mother as her nearest relative. However, the patient’s mother was not ordinarily resident in the UK, and, according to the statutory definition of ‘nearest relative’, the AMHP ought to have consulted the patient’s … Continue reading Regina v Managers of South Western Hospital and Another, Ex Parte M: QBD 24 Mar 1993

Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department Ex Parte Harry: QBD 3 Jun 1998

The Home Secretary had the duty to make a decision on the release of a mental patient, and in doing so had no obligation to follow the recommendation of the tribunal, but he must still act fairly and disclose what was happening in the making of his decision. Citations: Gazette 03-Jun-1998 Statutes: Mental Health Review … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department Ex Parte Harry: QBD 3 Jun 1998

In Re L (By His Next Friend GE); Regina v Bournewood Community and Mental Health NHS Trust, Ex Parte L: HL 25 Jun 1998

The applicant was an adult autistic, unable to consent to medical treatment. Treatment was provided at a day centre. He had been detained informally under the Act and against the wishes of his carers, but the Court of Appeal decided he should have been formally detained. Held: The appeal succeeded. His detention had not been … Continue reading In Re L (By His Next Friend GE); Regina v Bournewood Community and Mental Health NHS Trust, Ex Parte L: HL 25 Jun 1998

Herczegfalvy v Austria: ECHR 24 Sep 1992

The applicant was detained in an institution for mentally deranged offenders. While so detained he was subjected to the forcible administration of food and neuroleptics and to handcuffing to a security bed. He complained of violation of his Article 3 and 8 rights. One of his complaints was as to interference with his correspondence. Held: … Continue reading Herczegfalvy v Austria: ECHR 24 Sep 1992

Regina (on the application of H) v Mental Health Review Tribunal, North and East London Region: CA 28 Mar 2001

The section placed the burden upon a specially restricted patient to prove that he was not suffering from a mental disorder of a nature or degree requiring him to be detained, before the Tribunal could order his release. This shifting of the burden was in breach of his human rights not to be detained. It … Continue reading Regina (on the application of H) v Mental Health Review Tribunal, North and East London Region: CA 28 Mar 2001

Regina (Count Franz Von Brandenburg (aka Hanley) ) v East London and The City Mental Health NHS Trust, Snazell, Approved Social worker: CA 21 Feb 2001

The court was asked ‘When a mental health review tribunal has ordered the discharge of a patient, is it lawful to readmit him under section 2 or section 3 of the [Mental Health Act 1983] where it cannot be demonstrated that there has been a relevant change of circumstances?’ Held: There was nothing to prevent … Continue reading Regina (Count Franz Von Brandenburg (aka Hanley) ) v East London and The City Mental Health NHS Trust, Snazell, Approved Social worker: CA 21 Feb 2001

Regina v Mental Health Review Tribunal; Torfaen County Borough Council and Gwent Health Authority (ex parte Russell Hall): CA 30 Jul 1999

A patient having been convicted of manslaughter eventually applied for release. The authorities were concerned that he might have a spontaneous recurrence of his condition, but delayed preparation of a plan for his release. The Tribunal refused to order his release despite the delay. A review of the Tribunal failed because the Tribunal had no … Continue reading Regina v Mental Health Review Tribunal; Torfaen County Borough Council and Gwent Health Authority (ex parte Russell Hall): CA 30 Jul 1999

Regina v Mental Health Review Tribunal; Torfaen County Borough Council and Gwent Health Authority ex parte Hall: Admn 23 Apr 1999

The tribunal had ordered the conditional discharge of the patient, subject to conditions to be satisfied by the local health authority. The authority had failed to make the arrangements which would have satisfied the relevant conditions, and as a result the patient remained in detention in hospital. Held: A health or social services authority has … Continue reading Regina v Mental Health Review Tribunal; Torfaen County Borough Council and Gwent Health Authority ex parte Hall: Admn 23 Apr 1999

Regina v Secretary of State for Home Office ex parte Gilkes: Admn 21 Jan 1999

The prisoner challenged a decision to have her transferred to a mental hospital under scetion 47. Held: It had not been reasonable for the Secretary of State to rely on one of the two medical reports she relied on. However since if the Secretary of State had made further inquiries at the time of the … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for Home Office ex parte Gilkes: Admn 21 Jan 1999

Regina v Mental Health Review Tribunal for South Thames Region ex parte Anthony David Smith: Admn 4 Aug 1998

When assessing the release of a detained patient the tribunal must look at the ‘nature or degree’ of the illness disjunctively and not conjunctively. A person subject to a serious illness but without current symptoms might still be detained. Citations: Times 09-Dec-1998, [1998] EWHC Admin 832 Links: Bailii Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 72(1)(b)(I) Health … Continue reading Regina v Mental Health Review Tribunal for South Thames Region ex parte Anthony David Smith: Admn 4 Aug 1998

Regina v Mental Health Act Commission ex parte Smith: Admn 11 May 1998

The Commission had power to hear a complaint about treatment since the power to detain also carried the power to treat, and a complaint about one part carried a power to complain about the rest. Citations: Times 18-May-1998, [1998] EWHC Admin 524 Links: Bailii Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 120(b)(ii) Health, Jury Updated: 27 May … Continue reading Regina v Mental Health Act Commission ex parte Smith: Admn 11 May 1998

Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department ex parte Harry: QBD 15 May 1998

Home Secretary had the duty to make decision on release of mental patient and had no duty to follow recommendation of the tribunal but must act fairly and disclose what was happening. Citations: Times 15-May-1998 Statutes: Mental Health Review Tribunal Rules 1983 (1983 No 942) Jurisdiction: England and Wales Health Updated: 26 May 2022; Ref: … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department ex parte Harry: QBD 15 May 1998

Broadmoor Hospital Authority and Another v Robinson: CA 20 Dec 1999

Where a body was given statutory duties, it would normally be entitled to orders restraining others from interfering with its performance of those duties. A patient detained under the Act had written a book, and the Hospital had sought to restrain its publication. It was argued that such a restraint went beyond the express powers … Continue reading Broadmoor Hospital Authority and Another v Robinson: CA 20 Dec 1999

Regina (on the application of K) v Camden and Islington Health Authority: CA 21 Feb 2001

The duty of a local authority to seek to provide resources to care for a mental patient after release into the community, is not absolute, and is subject to the limitations of the availability of a sufficient budget. A continued detention in hospital of a patient because of the absence of such proper provision was … Continue reading Regina (on the application of K) v Camden and Islington Health Authority: CA 21 Feb 2001

Hutchison Reid v Secretary Of State For Scotland and Another: HL 5 Feb 1998

(Scotland) A detention in hospital which was capable of preventing the deterioration of a psychopathic disorder in a patient was sufficient to bring his detention within the requirement for treatment which might alleviate a condition, which phrase has a wide meaning. ‘Medical treatment’ could include treatment which alleviates or prevents a deterioration of the symptoms … Continue reading Hutchison Reid v Secretary Of State For Scotland and Another: HL 5 Feb 1998

Regina v Collins; Pathfinder Mental Health Services NHS Trust and St Georges Healthcare NHS Trust ex parte S: Admn 7 May 1998

The authority obtained an ex parte order allowing it to give treatment in the form of a medically assisted birth, to the claimant against her will. Citations: Times 08-May-1998, Gazette 03-Jun-1998, [1998] EWHC Admin 490 Links: Bailii Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 2 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Citing: See Also – Regina v Collins; Pathfinder … Continue reading Regina v Collins; Pathfinder Mental Health Services NHS Trust and St Georges Healthcare NHS Trust ex parte S: Admn 7 May 1998

J and others v Switzerland: ECHR 5 Apr 1995

Even relatively minor medical treatment, if compulsory, may engage article 8. Citations: 22398/93 Statutes: European Convention on Human Rights 8 Cited by: Cited – B, Regina (on the Application of) v Ashworth Hospital Authority HL 17-Mar-2005 The House was asked whether a patient detained for treatment under the 1983 Act can be treated against his … Continue reading J and others v Switzerland: ECHR 5 Apr 1995

Regina v Bournewood Community and Mental Health NHS Trust, Ex parte L: CA 2 Dec 1997

The applicant was severely autistic, and unable to consent to medical treatment. He had been admitted voluntarly to a mental hospital and detained under common law powers. The Hospital trust appealed a finding that his detention had been unlawful. Held: He had in fact been detained: ‘We do not consider that the judge was correct … Continue reading Regina v Bournewood Community and Mental Health NHS Trust, Ex parte L: CA 2 Dec 1997

Regina v Ealing District Health Authority, ex parte Fox: 1993

A patient’s conditional discharge had been ordered by a tribunal. One of the conditions imposed by the tribunal was the appointment by the health authority of a responsible medical officer to provide psychiatric supervision of the patient in the community. The authority refused to make the appointment. Held: ‘I reject the submission that this duty … Continue reading Regina v Ealing District Health Authority, ex parte Fox: 1993

Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ex Parte Didlick: QBD 30 Mar 1993

A restriction did not expire simply by being allowed to elapse, but could only be brought to an end by a direction from the Home Secretary or by the patient being discharged from the hospital. Citations: Times 30-Mar-1993 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1959, Mental Health Act 1983 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Health Updated: 16 May … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ex Parte Didlick: QBD 30 Mar 1993

Clunis v Camden and Islington Health Authority: QBD 12 Dec 1996

The plaintiff brought proceedings against the defendant health authority for negligence and breach of duty of care on the ground that, if he had been properly treated, he would not have killed his victim and would not have been convicted of the offence of manslaughter. He alleged that the consequence of the defendant’s breach of … Continue reading Clunis v Camden and Islington Health Authority: QBD 12 Dec 1996

Regina v Collins; Pathfinder Mental Health Services NHS Trust and St George’s Health Care NHS Trust ex parte ‘S’: Admn 17 Mar 1997

The applicant sought to challenge a decision that she should be sterilised, and detained as a mental patient for this purpose. Judges: Popplewell J Citations: [1997] EWHC Admin 281 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 2, Supreme Court Act 1981 31(6) Jurisdiction: England and Wales Citing: See Also – Regina v Collins; Pathfinder Mental Health Services … Continue reading Regina v Collins; Pathfinder Mental Health Services NHS Trust and St George’s Health Care NHS Trust ex parte ‘S’: Admn 17 Mar 1997

In Re F (A Child): CA 13 Oct 1999

Where a child, having attained sixteen, but with severe mental disability, sought to return home where the local authority feared she might be the victim of abuse, the proper approach was to seek wardship, where she might have separate representation. An application for the displacement of the father as the nearest relative was inappropriate, since … Continue reading In Re F (A Child): CA 13 Oct 1999

In Re Barker; Regina v Bhb Community Healthcare NHS Trust and Another, Ex Parte Barker: CA 14 Oct 1998

A mental patient’s detention under s 3 should not be renewed under s 20 when she was absent from the hospital on home leave. Judicial review is to be preferred to habeas corpus as a means of seeking remedies in these situations. Citations: Times 14-Oct-1998 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 3, 20 Jurisdiction: England and … Continue reading In Re Barker; Regina v Bhb Community Healthcare NHS Trust and Another, Ex Parte Barker: CA 14 Oct 1998

Osman v The United Kingdom: ECHR 28 Oct 1998

Police’s Complete Immunity was Too Wide (Grand Chamber) A male teacher developed an obsession with a male pupil. He changed his name by deed poll to the pupil’s surname. He was required to teach at another school. The pupil’s family’s property was subjected to numerous acts of vandalism, which the police investigated and in respect … Continue reading Osman v The United Kingdom: ECHR 28 Oct 1998

Regina v Ashworth Hospital Authority (Now Mersey Care National Health Service Trust) ex parte Munjaz: HL 13 Oct 2005

The claimant was detained in a secure Mental Hospital. He complained at the seclusions policy applied by the hospital, saying that it departed from the Guidance issued for such policies by the Secretary of State under the Act. Held: The House allowed the Hospital’s appeal. The policy was lawful. Seclusion was to be seen as … Continue reading Regina v Ashworth Hospital Authority (Now Mersey Care National Health Service Trust) ex parte Munjaz: HL 13 Oct 2005

Henderson v Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust: CA 3 Aug 2018

Upon the allegedly negligent release of the claimant from mental health care, she had, while in the midst of a serious psychotic episode, derived from the schizophrenia, killed her mother and been convicted of manslaughter. She now sought damages in negligence. The defendant relied upon a defence of illegality. Held: All the heads of claim … Continue reading Henderson v Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust: CA 3 Aug 2018

Caparo Industries Plc v Dickman and others: HL 8 Feb 1990

Limitation of Loss from Negligent Mis-statement The plaintiffs sought damages from accountants for negligence. They had acquired shares in a target company and, relying upon the published and audited accounts which overstated the company’s earnings, they purchased further shares. Held: The duties of an auditor are founded in contract and the extent of the duties … Continue reading Caparo Industries Plc v Dickman and others: HL 8 Feb 1990

Regina v Deputy Governor of Parkhurst Prison, Ex parte Hague, Weldon v Home Office: HL 24 Jul 1991

The prisoner challenged the decision to place him in segregation under Prison Rule 43. Under rule 43(1) the initial power to segregate was given to ‘the governor’. The case arose from the fact that the governor of one prison had purported to authorise the segregation of a prisoner on his arrival at another prison to … Continue reading Regina v Deputy Governor of Parkhurst Prison, Ex parte Hague, Weldon v Home Office: HL 24 Jul 1991

Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board: SC 11 Mar 2015

Change in Doctors’ Information Obligations The pursuer claimed that her obstetrician had been negligent, after her son suffered severe injury at birth. The baby faced a birth with shoulder dystocia – the inability of the shoulders to pass through the pelvis. The consultant considered that a vaginal birth was preferable and did not given advice … Continue reading Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board: SC 11 Mar 2015

Regina v Cannons Park Mental Health Review Tribunal, Ex Parte A: QBD 24 Aug 1993

It was unlawful to detain a psychopath for treatment where in fact his condition was untreatable. Citations: Times 24-Aug-1993, Independent 01-Sep-1993 Statutes: Mental Health Act 1983 3(2) Cited by: Appeal from – Regina v Cannons Park Mental Health Review Tribunal, Ex Parte A CA 2-Mar-1994 It was not unlawful for a patient to be detained … Continue reading Regina v Cannons Park Mental Health Review Tribunal, Ex Parte A: QBD 24 Aug 1993

Barrett v London Borough of Enfield: HL 17 Jun 1999

The claimant had spent his childhood in foster care, and now claimed damages against a local authority for decisions made and not made during that period. The judge’s decision to strike out the claim had been upheld by the Court of Appeal. Held: An adult formerly in the care of a local authority as a … Continue reading Barrett v London Borough of Enfield: HL 17 Jun 1999

Stovin v Wise, Norfolk County Council (Third Party): HL 24 Jul 1996

Statutory Duty Does Not Create Common Law Duty The mere existence of statutory power to remedy a defect cannot of itself create a duty of care to do so. A highway authority need not have a duty of care to highway users because of its duty to maintain the highway. The two stage test ‘involves … Continue reading Stovin v Wise, Norfolk County Council (Third Party): HL 24 Jul 1996

JD v East Berkshire Community Health NHS Trust and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

Parents of children had falsely and negligently been accused of abusing their children. The children sought damages for negligence against the doctors or social workers who had made the statements supporting the actions taken. The House was asked if the suffering of psychiatric injury by the parent was a foreseeable result of making it and … Continue reading JD v East Berkshire Community Health NHS Trust and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

X (Minors) v Bedfordshire County Council; M (A Minor) and Another v Newham London Borough Council; Etc: HL 29 Jun 1995

Liability in Damages on Statute Breach to be Clear Damages were to be awarded against a Local Authority for breach of statutory duty in a care case only if the statute was clear that damages were capable of being awarded. in the ordinary case a breach of statutory duty does not, by itself, give rise … Continue reading X (Minors) v Bedfordshire County Council; M (A Minor) and Another v Newham London Borough Council; Etc: HL 29 Jun 1995

Re SG (adult mental patient: abortion): FD 1991

Her GP and a consultant gynaecologist had recommended a termination for a pregnant, severely mentally handicapped 26 year old woman. Following Re F, her father sought a formal declaration of the court was required before any termination. Held: Termination of a pregnancy was already closely regulated by statute which provided ‘fully adequate safeguards for doctors … Continue reading Re SG (adult mental patient: abortion): FD 1991

Regina v Department of Education and Employment ex parte Begbie: CA 20 Aug 1999

A statement made by a politician as to his intentions on a particular matter if elected could not create a legitimate expectation as regards the delivery of the promise after elected, even where the promise would directly affect individuals, and the costs of a child’s education. Any consequences of a failure to keep a promise … Continue reading Regina v Department of Education and Employment ex parte Begbie: CA 20 Aug 1999

AN, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal (Northern Region) and others: CA 21 Dec 2005

The appellant was detained under section 37 of the 1983 Act as a mental patient with a restriction under section 41. He sought his release. Held: The standard of proof in such applications remained the balance of probabilities, but that standard was flexible, and varied according to the seriousness of the allegation. The only misdirection … Continue reading AN, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal (Northern Region) and others: CA 21 Dec 2005

K v Central and North West London Mental Health NHS Trust and Another: QBD 30 May 2008

The claimant appealed against an order striking out his claim in negligence. He had leaped from a window in a suicide attempt. The accommodation was provided by the defendant whilst caring for him under the 1983 Act. Held: The case should be allowed to go ahead. Though the common law tort of negligence is still … Continue reading K v Central and North West London Mental Health NHS Trust and Another: QBD 30 May 2008

L v Bournewood Community and Mental Health NHS Trust: Admn 9 Oct 1997

L was adult autistic. He had been admitted to mental hospital for fear of his self-harming behaviours, and detained informally. He complained that that detention was unlawful. Held: The continued detention of a mental health patient who is incapable of giving consent is unlawful in the absence of the hospital following the statutory procedures. Owen … Continue reading L v Bournewood Community and Mental Health NHS Trust: Admn 9 Oct 1997

Cornwall Council, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Somerset County Council: SC 8 Jul 2015

PH had severe physical and learning disabilities and was without speech, lacking capacity to decide for himself where to live. Since the age of four he received accommodation and support at public expense. Until his majority in December 2004, he was living with foster parents in South Gloucestershire. He then lived in two care homes … Continue reading Cornwall Council, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Somerset County Council: SC 8 Jul 2015

S v Airedale National Health Service Trust: QBD 22 Aug 2002

The patient had been detained, and then secluded within the mental hospital for 11 days. He claimed to have been subjected to inhuman treatment, and false imprisonment. Held: His claim failed. The policy allowed the authority to confine him to a locked room under supervision for the protection of others. The fact of seclusion did … Continue reading S v Airedale National Health Service Trust: QBD 22 Aug 2002

Regina v Secretary of State for The Home Department Ex Parte Simms: HL 8 Jul 1999

Ban on Prisoners talking to Journalists unlawful The two prisoners, serving life sentences for murder, had had their appeals rejected. They continued to protest innocence, and sought to bring their campaigns to public attention through the press, having oral interviews with journalists without undertakings from the journalists not to publish any element of the interview. … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for The Home Department Ex Parte Simms: HL 8 Jul 1999

In re S-C (Mental Patient: Habeas Corpus): CA 22 Nov 1995

The Court of Appeal issued habeas corpus because the applicant was committed to a mental institution pursuant to an application which was made by somebody who lacked the statutory authority to make it. The right of personal freedom is fundamental. In the mental health context, if someone is to be taken out of the community … Continue reading In re S-C (Mental Patient: Habeas Corpus): CA 22 Nov 1995

Modaresi, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health: SC 24 Jul 2013

The Court was asked: ‘As: (i) a public body with obligations in public law and (ii) a public authority under the Human Rights Act 1998 can the Secretary of State for Health ‘the S/S’ lawfully refuse to refer a patient’s case to the First-tier Mental Health Review Tribunal ‘MHRT’ under section 67(1) of the Mental … Continue reading Modaresi, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health: SC 24 Jul 2013

Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ex Parte Pierson: HL 24 Jul 1997

The Home Secretary may not later extend the tariff for a lifer, after it had been set by an earlier Home Secretary, merely to satisfy needs of retribution and deterrence: ‘A power conferred by Parliament in general terms is not to be taken to authorise the doing of acts by the donee of the power … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ex Parte Pierson: HL 24 Jul 1997

Axon, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Another: Admn 23 Jan 2006

A mother sought to challenge guidelines issued by the respondent which would allow doctors to protect the confidentiality of women under 16 who came to them for assistance even though the sexual activities they might engage in would be unlawful. Held: A person under 16 who was otherwise competent was entitled to seek medical assistance, … Continue reading Axon, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Health and Another: Admn 23 Jan 2006

Cutts v Head and Another: CA 7 Dec 1983

There had been a trial of 35 days regarding rights of way over land, which had proved fruitless, and where some orders had been made without jurisdiction. The result had been inconclusive. The costs order was now appealed, the plaintiff complaining that the judge had failed to take into account an offer of settlement made … Continue reading Cutts v Head and Another: CA 7 Dec 1983

Khera v Secretary of State for The Home Department; Khawaja v Secretary of State for The Home Department: HL 10 Feb 1983

The appellant Khera’s father had obtained leave to settle in the UK. The appellant obtained leave to join him, but did not disclose that he had married. After his entry his wife in turn sought to join him. The appellant was detained as an illegal immigrant. Held: The term ‘illegal immigrant’ included anyone entering unlawfully. … Continue reading Khera v Secretary of State for The Home Department; Khawaja v Secretary of State for The Home Department: HL 10 Feb 1983

Re C (Adult: Refusal of Treatment): FD 1994

C had been admitted to a secure hospital as a patient under Part III of the Mental Health Act 1983 because of his paranoid schizophrenia. He now sought an injunction to prevent the amputation of his gangrenous foot without his written consent. The patient’s persecutory delusions might have prevented him from weighing the information relevant … Continue reading Re C (Adult: Refusal of Treatment): FD 1994

Regina v Governor of Durham Prison, ex parte Hardial Singh: QBD 13 Dec 1983

Unlawful Detention pending Deportation An offender had been recommended for deportation following conviction. He had served his sentence and would otherwise have been released on parole. He had no passport and no valid travel documents. He complained that the length of time for which he had then been detained was too long and that the … Continue reading Regina v Governor of Durham Prison, ex parte Hardial Singh: QBD 13 Dec 1983

Clunis (By his Next Friend Prince) v Camden and Islington Health Authority: CA 5 Dec 1997

The plaintiff had killed someone and, as a result, been convicted of manslaughter and ordered to be detained in a secure hospital when subject to after-care under section 117 of the 1983 Act. He sought damages from the health authority on the basis that he would not have killed anyone but for negligence on the … Continue reading Clunis (By his Next Friend Prince) v Camden and Islington Health Authority: CA 5 Dec 1997

N, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Health; Regina (E) v Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust: CA 24 Jul 2009

The claimants appealed against the imposition on them of smoking bans while they were compulsorily detained at Rampton Hospital. They said that other persons detained for example in prisons had been exempted fully. Held: The right or freedom to smoke does not engage article 8(1) of the Convention. The appeal failed: ‘We reject the argument … Continue reading N, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Health; Regina (E) v Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust: CA 24 Jul 2009

In re H and R (Minors) (Child Sexual Abuse: Standard of Proof): HL 14 Dec 1995

Evidence allowed – Care Application after Abuse Children had made allegations of serious sexual abuse against their step-father. He was acquitted at trial, but the local authority went ahead with care proceedings. The parents appealed against a finding that a likely risk to the children had still been been found. Held: A care order could … Continue reading In re H and R (Minors) (Child Sexual Abuse: Standard of Proof): HL 14 Dec 1995