First Member-proposed LCO laid.

Jonathan Morgan AM today tabled the first proposed Legislative Competence Order (LCO) by a Member who is not a member of the Government. Mr Morgan won a ballot of AMs in October to allow him to table a LCO.  

Legislative Competence Orders are a type of secondary legislation which transfer specific powers from Parliament to the Assembly. In practice, this will mean that each new LCO will add a new matter into the relevant field in Schedule 5 of the Government of Wales Act 2006, providing the Assembly with the power to make Measures within the policy areas defined by the matter. If Mr Morgan’s LCO becomes law it will transfer specific powers over mental health from Westminster to the National Assembly for Wales.

The proposed legislation enshrines in law specific patient rights including:

• a right to assessment and treatment in a therapeutic setting before compulsion becomes the only safe option, and;

• a right for patients to receive independent advocacy

Jonathan Morgan AM said: “Reform of mental health legislation is long overdue. I am proud to be the first Assembly Member to put forward proposals which could bring that about.

“One in four people will suffer from some form of mental health illness in their lifetime – while many people who end up being detained under the Mental Health Act are capable of assessment and treatment before the final step is taken.It is our duty to ensure the level of care we provide is appropriate, of a high standard, and treats patients with dignity and respect.

“I have always believed thatmental health reform is the last great social reform for our country. These reforms are vital if we are to call ourselves a civilised society.”