HC Deb 10 July 1981 vol 8 cc245-6W
Mr. Murphy

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will consider introducing legislation which would more effectively prevent glue sniffing in public places.

Sir George Young

Inhaling the vapours of solvents, including glue, may give rise to a drunken-like state, during which offences may be committed. These can be dealt with under the existing law. There would be great practical difficulties in formulating effective restrictions on the possession and use of the solvents concerned, and in enforcing them; and even if these difficulties could be overcome a specific ban on public places might add to the danger of accidents to solvent sniffers by increasing the likelihood that sniffing would be done secretly or in isolated places.