Dr Daniel Poulter drew the House's attention to his entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests as a practising NHS psychiatrist. He introduced the Joint Committee on the Draft Mental Health Bill, which has been working since July 2022, holding 21 meetings, speaking with over 50 witnesses and receiving more than 100 submissions of written evidence. The committee highlighted rising detention rates under the Mental Health Act and a disproportionate impact on black and ethnic minority communities. They welcomed reforms that aim to improve patient choice, reduce detentions and racial inequality but also identified concerns around implementation, resourcing and potential unintended consequences. Recommendations were made to address these issues and create a mental health commissioner to drive further reform. Proper resourcing and workforce planning are crucial for the success of the Bill, with the need for annual reporting on progress against plans. Key principles such as choice and autonomy must be included in the legislation. Tackling racial inequalities was highlighted, recommending monitoring data on inequalities and reviewing community treatment orders for black patients. Changes to detention criteria were recommended to ensure they benefit patients, while addressing issues around learning disabilities and autism by removing them from long-term detention conditions but with safeguards against displacement into criminal justice systems. Patient choice should be enhanced through advance choices documents. The number of children experiencing mental distress has risen dramatically post-pandemic, highlighting the need for stronger protections in legislation.