Breivik dilemma
The Council of Europe in 2004 has stated that before a person is placed and treated for a mental illness, a fair and public hearing should take place. For example, Anders Breivik in Norway – who killed 77 people – was able to stand up in court and defend his actions publicly.
Breivik was able to examine the evidence and get legal assistance to show that he should not be put in a psychiatric institution.
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Hide AdUnder the 2003 Mental Health Act this does not happen. A person can be detained and treated for 28 days under a Short Term Detention Certificate based on a single interview behind closed doors with a psychiatrist, without legal representation.
I have asked the Scottish Government about this anomaly but it has stated that it is up to me to test this in court. This I cannot do due to the costs involved.
W Hunter Watson has also asked the Scottish Government under a Freedom of Information request for the legal advice on whether the 2003 Act is compatible with ECHR and this was refused.
If the Scottish Government wishes a fair society in the run-up to the independence referendum, it should amend the 2003 Act so that it is compatible in all respects with the ECHR.
Andrew Muir
Crosslet Avenue
Dumbarton