§ Mr. Smallasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what aspects of the Brain Committee Report on Drug Addiction are being considered for application in Scotland;
(2) what is the incidence of drug addiction in Scotland; and what proposals he has to deal with this problem.
§ Mr. RossThe total number of persons suffering from drug addiction in Scotland is not known. The number of patients admitted to mental hospitals and psychiatric units in 1964 for treatment under the National Health Service for addiction to drugs, including those controlled under the Dangerous Drugs Acts, was 166; the provisional figures for 1965 indicate no significant change.
I am reviewing the provision of treatment facilities in consultation with the 195W Regional Hospital Boards and I am considering, in conjunction with my right hon. Friends the Home Secretary and the Minister of Health, what further action; can be taken to deal with this problem in the light of the recommendations of the Interdepartmental Committee on Drug Addiction.