HC Deb 17 March 1980 vol 981 c9W
Mr. Eggar

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is satisfied that the present criminal law gives the police enough powers to stop glue sniffing by children.

Mr. Whitelaw

In general I think it would be a mistake to look to the criminal law to provide the means of preventing this dangerous practice. Persuasion and education are the core of the practical approach and I am sure that the police will play their full part along with other local services. In so far as the criminal law may be relevant in a particular case, I am not aware that the police require further powers.