§ 46. Mr. Deedesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the operation of the Dangerous Drugs Act, 1964; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss BaconThe Dangerous Drugs Bill has been amended in another place to provide for the more effective safekeeping of "hard" and "soft" drugs, and to strengthen police powers. I am awaiting the views of the Advisory Committee on Drug Dependence on the need for any other changes in the law on "soft" drugs.
§ Mr. DeedesIs the right hon. Lady aware that one difficulty which seems to be arising over this Act is its administration in the courts? Would she ask her right hon. Friend to see whether it is possible to give a little more guidance to courts on the administration of the Act?
§ Miss BaconThat is a very difficult question to answer because, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, it is very difficult for my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to direct the courts. If there is any particular point, perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will let me know. He himself is a member of the advisory committee which is considering this question.