HC Deb 26 March 1975 vol 889 c152W
Mr. Loveridge

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will initiate discussions with the representatives of local authorities to ensure that books which advocate the taking of dangerous and illegal drugs, other than on medical prescription, are only available on loan to persons who can satisfy the librarian in charge that they have a good reason for borrowing such books, and that such books shall in any case be removed from open shelves from which they can at present be directly borrowed by young children.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

No. Library authorities are constituted under the 1964 Public Libraries and Museums Act as responsible bodies with the duty of providing a comprehensive and efficient library service. I am satisfied that they do not need reminders from me of the problems to which the hon. Member refers.