HC Deb 20 July 1916 vol 84 cc1196-7
Sir J. LONSDALE

(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is now in a position to say what steps are proposed by the Government to deal with the sale of cocaine?

Mr. SAMUEL

The sale of cocaine to any member of the Forces is already prohibited by Order 40 of the Defence of the Realm Regulations. Further steps, however, are necessary to put a stop to the illegitimate traffic in this drug which is now prevalent, and I am proposing to obtain at once an extension of the Regulations to enable the Government to control the sale of the drug generally.

Colonel NORTON GRIFFITHS

Did not the right hon. Gentleman promise to take active steps in reference to the matter some time ago, in answer to a question of mine?

Mr. SAMUEL

It has taken a little time to elaborate the form of the Regulation. It is completed, and I am awaiting a meeting of the Privy Council in order to secure its enactment.