§ 23. Mr. Grayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish the figures for under-age drinking convictions in Scotland for the years 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownThe number of young people under 18 convicted in 1973 of buying excisable liquor or consuming it in a bar was 1,216. Because of a 1353 change in the method of collecting statistics, exactly comparable figures for earlier years are not available. In 1970 the number convicted of buying liquor was 719, in 1971 it was 766, and in 1972 it was 688.
§ Mr. GrayThe Minister will appreciate that these figures are most alarming. As a matter of urgency will he take steps to arrange for consultation between the Scottish Health Education Unit, the Scottish Education Department and local authorities throughout Scotland so that young people may be made fully aware of the dangers of this habit?
§ Mr. BrownI do not think that it is wise to use exaggerated phrases about alarm. It is certainly a subject that gives great cause for concern, particularly for those who are working with young people. Some of the points that the hon. Gentleman has raised are my hon. Friend's responsibility. Those matters are on board, and there is a pretty substantial programme of health education, which includes the dangers of drinking and alcoholism.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithWill the Minister say how the Government's consideration of the Clayson Report is progressing, and what progress is being made on consultation about the report? Will he say when the Government will be able to make a statement on Clayson and to bring forward proposals to the House?
§ Mr. BrownIt is probably making as much progress as it was under the hon. Gentleman's régime. There has been no great public pressure for reform. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we are considering all the specific recomendations in the Clayson Report, and we hope to make an announcement as soon as possible.