Public Law (UK) problem question based on chapter : Police powers, the Humans Right Act 1998 and Freedom of Expression.

The police are concerned about the incidence of drug dealing on Honeysuckle Farm, an Inner London housing estate. They are finding it difficult to bring the criminals to justice. So they keep a watch on the streets. Hector is seen passing a small parcel to another friend. The police think he is dealing in drugs so they grab him and take him to the local police station for questioning, where he is detained for the purpose of gathering information about other possible suspects. He requests to see a solicitor but is refused on the grounds that this will lead to others being alerted. In his first interview Hector refuses to answer police questions. After fifteen hours questioning by successive officers Hector finally admits to dealing in heroin and to receiving stolen goods. He is charged. He now wishes to plead not guilty and says he only confessed because he was cold, hungry and wanted 'a fix'. He says now that the package was a present for his brother on his birthday.

Hector has a history of mental instability. Advise Hector.