The statistical information contained in this bulletin includes information on the different types of patients subject to mental health legislation in England and Wales. It explains the legal categories of this legislation under which patients are detained and provides tables concerning the types of mental disorder; type of offense; period in hospital; discharges and disposal of restricted patients, including those detained in and/or admitted to hospital by type of hospital, sex, legal category, and offense; reconvictions of restricted patients; and admission of unrestricted patients. A section of notes describes the types of patients covered as being both restricted (those receiving an order under the mental health legislation) and non-restricted (those receiving a court order). Background information is given concerning terminology used in the report and specifics of offense categories. In conclusion, the legislative framework affecting this bulletin is reviewed; sources of information are listed; definitions are given of "admission" and "time spent in hospital;" identification of the source of reconvictions rates; and miscellaneous explanation of methods and sources used in making the report are included.