HC Deb 05 July 1932 vol 268 c237
44. Sir W. SUGDEN

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he is aware that there is at the present time in the West-end of London more open selling of cocaine and similar drugs than at any period since the War, and that the greater part is supplied through chemists who carry on a normal business; and whether he can make a statement on the matter?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME.DEPARTMENT (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

No, Sir. All the evidence is to the contrary.

Sir W. SUGDEN

Is it not the fact that these supplies are coming through continental chemists?

Mr. STANLEY

No, Sir.

Sir W. SUGDEN

If the Home Office have knowledge that they are not coming through continental sources, will the Under-Secretary say through what sources they are coming?

Mr. STANLEY

I have just said that all the evidence is to the contrary.

43. Lieut.-Colonel WATTS - MORGAN (for Mr. JOHN)

asked the Home Secretary if he has any information as to whether the reduction of preventive personnel due to measures of economy has resulted in any increase in the smuggling of dangerous drugs?

Mr. STANLEY

There has been no decrease recently in the preventive staff, and, so far as is known, no increase in the smuggling of dangerous drugs.