HC Deb 17 July 1963 vol 681 cc509-10
22. Sir M. Galpern

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the grave concern expressed by the Glasgow police during a recent High Court case at the growth of drug trafficking in the Glasgow area and the need for greater vigilance on the part of the authorities; if he will institute a special inquiry into the position; and if he will make a statement.

Lady Tweedsmuir

My right hon. Friend has asked the Chief Constable of Glasgow for a report and will get in touch with the hon. Member when he has had an opportunity of considering it.

Sir M. Galpern

While I welcome the fact that the Secretary of State has asked for a report, would not the noble Lady agree, in view of yesterday's conviction of a Stirling chemist for selling drugs without a prescription, the allegations of trafficking in "goof" pills at Dumfries Borstal Institution, and the common defence in serious assult cases of the accused being under the influence of drugs, that a special inquiry, in addition to the report into drug trafficking in Scotland, is urgently called for?

Lady Tweedsmuir

The case mentioned in the Question involved Indian hemp. As regards other drugs, all medical committees in Scotland were recently advised to be very careful about prescriptions.

Mr. Hannan

Will the hon. Lady ask her right hon. Friend to direct attention, when inquiries into this matter are made, to the establishment not only of the river police but of Customs people employed on the estuary of the Clyde?

Lady Tweedsmuir

Yes, Sir.