§ 29. Mr. LOUGHERasked the Home Secretary whether, in respect of recent cases of British women employed by Chinese resident in this country, the police should be accorded wider powers for periodic inspection of premises with the object of enabling the police force to exercise closer scrutiny in the matter of drug importation and its illicit usage amongst residents in seaport towns particularly?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe question of giving the police increased powers of inspection in cases where there is ground for suspecting a breach of the law is under consideration in connection with the Bill for the amendment of the Dangerous Drugs Act.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs not the presence of Chinese seamen in British ships largely responsible for the importation of drugs? Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the President of the Board of Trade on this matter?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI shall be glad to consult my right hon. Friend, but I cannot answer in reference to shipping matters.