§ 19. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she will introduce legislation to regulate smoking by pupils and students in educational establishments and prohibit the siting of vending machines for tobacco products therein.
§ Mrs. ThatcherI do not think that legislation is the right way to regulate smoking in schools and colleges. The report of the Royal College of Physicians, which included a recommendation in favour of restrictions on the siting of vending machines, is being studied.
§ Sir G. NabarroWould my right hon. Friend pay some regard to the fact that, if it had not been for the cantankerous behaviour of her colleague the Secretary of State for Social Services, a very desirable Clause inserted during the Standing Committee proceedings into the Tobacco (Health Hazards) Bill prohibiting vending machines in the precincts of all educational institutions, colleges and schools would have, been implemented? Would she have regard to that important provision in that Bill, or, if she cannot accept that legislation, will she introduce substitution legislation?
§ Mrs. ThatcherI have never found my right hon. Friend cantankerous with me, but I confess that he has never been provoked. The Report of the Royal College of Physicians is still being studied, which I feel is the best way to go about the matter.
§ Mr. SpeakerMr. Patrick Wall—Question No. 22.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I have Question No. 21.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Member's Question has already been answered.