UK Government Health minister Jacqui Smith was given a rowdy reception in Wales as she defended plans to change mental health legislation.

Addressing delegates in Cardiff at Mind's annual conference, she said she would push ahead with the Mental Health Bill despite fierce opposition.

The proposals in the draft bill, published in June, have raised serious concerns among mental health care professionals.

Jacqui Smith will address 1,000 delegates

Delegates challenged Ms Smith as she addressed the first day of the conference on Tuesday.

Under the proposals people with severe personality disorders could face detention even if they have not committed a crime.

The Bill also plans that mentally ill people living in the community should be forced to take their medication.

More than 1,000 people attending the conference in Cardiff listened to a speech by Ms Smith, who then answered questions from the floor.

It came a day before the Queen's Speech on Wednesday.

Charity bosses saw the question and answer session as an important opportunity to discuss concerns that many people have about the Bill.

I hope that she will give increased hope that there will be significant changes in the Bill

Richard Brook, Mind

Richard Brook, Chief Executive of Mind said: "We are really encouraged that she (Jacqui Smith) wants to hear the views of people.

"I hope that she will give increased hope that there will be significant changes in the Bill," he said.

A warning to the government that proposals in its Draft Mental Health Bill could infringe the human rights of patients has already been issued.

The joint House of Commons and House of Lords committee on Human Rights say they have "serious reservations" about some aspects of the draft measures which would in general improve safeguards on the human rights of patients.

Mr Brook said: "I hope she will give some hints about how the government are thinking about the legislation."

Richard Brook: biggest conference

As well as the debate at the three-day conference, delegates from across England and Wales including those who have experienced mental health problems, will take part in a series of workshops.

"This is the biggest conference held by Mind," said Mr Brook.

"There are huge inequalities in how the health service is accessed by people with mental health problems and we hope to address some of these issues.

"There are a whole range of things going on and one of the most important points about this conference is that people are being listened to.

"People are able to give their views on what works and what doesn't and service providers are listening," he added.