HC Deb 07 February 1983 vol 36 cc278-9W
Mr. Gordon Wilson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what has been the success of Her Majesty's Customs and Excise in seizing contraband drugs in each year since 1979 and in relation to drugs seized; and whether he is able to estimate the proportion that represents of likely total drugs brought into the United Kingdom.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

The quantities of controlled drugs seized by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise in each year since 1979 are as follows:

1979 1980 1981 *1982
Cannabis
Herbal Kg 6,403 [...] 16,579 10,209
Resin Kg 5,227 [...] 7,536 3,659
Liquid Kg 41 123 73 27
Heroin Kg 40 38 87 178
Cocaine Kg 22 36 14 12
Morphine
Powder Kg 2 6 6 2
Tablets No. 1,915 16,080 10,000 38
LSD
Tablets Doses 2,748 4,332 1,013 15,542
Amphetamine
Powder Kg 0.138 0.265 8 2
Tablets No. 95 318 1,141 485
Opium Kg 60 30 10 17
Tablets No. 72
* Provisional.

All the indications are that a significant proportion of illegally imported drugs are seized. The amount of each type of drug seized fluctuates considerably over relatively short periods. But a moment's reflection will enable the hon. Member to appreciate that no worth while estimate of total importation can be given.