§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his policy towards the use of drugs to enhance race horse performance; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenAction to prevent or detect the misuse of drugs for racehorses is a matter for the Jockey Club, who also have their own procedures for disciplining those who breach their rules of racing. In appropriate circumstances there might be a charge of conspiracy to defraud. The Law Commission, in its working paper number 104, has asked for views on whether gambling swindles involving drugs on animals should be covered by statutory offences. My right hon. Friend will consider its advice in due course.