§ Mrs. Rumboldasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will issue guidance to local authorities about the use of drugs as a form of control in secure units in children's homes.
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§ Mr. NewtonGuidance on this point is included in a more general circular to local authorities about secure accommodation, issued today. The guidance draws attention to the exceptional circumstances which should apply before the use of tranquillising drugs is considered,294W and the need for a qualified medical practitioner to be fully involved in that consideration. It also changes the arrangements governing the use of single separation rooms in secure units. I am arranging for copies of the circular to be place in the Library of the House.