Rapists, killers challenge UK govt. over right to benefits
By ANISunday, February 20, 2011
LONDON - The detained rapists and killers in psychiatric hospitals are challenging the British Government in a test case at the European Court of Human Right, demanding for State benefits.
The case will intensify pressure on Prime Minister David Cameron, after he pledged to review Strasbourg’s influence on British law following the row over whether prisoners should have the vote, The Telegraph reports.
The new case brought up by four patients, and a former patient at secure mental hospitals is among a series of claims being considered by Strasbourg, demonstrating the extent of the court’s influence over Britain, it added.
Among other new applications to the European Court, include convicted terrorist’s claims that it was “inhuman and degrading” to increase his jail sentence. Besides, and a paedophile has claimed that his “right to a family life” was breached when the Prison Service banned visits from his infant son.
The criminals detained at Broadmoor and other psychiatric hospitals claim it is discriminatory to prevent them claiming Income Support, pension credits or Jobseeker’s Allowance, which are paid to some of their fellow patients. (ANI)
