§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he has taken to control the illegal use of drugs by prisoners in Her Majesty's prisons in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ScottAll concerned with the administration of prisons in Northern Ireland are fully aware of the need to counter the possible misuse of drugs by prisoners. Regular searches of prisoners and cells are conducted, and special searches are carried out when the Governor suspects that a prisoner is in possession of any unauthorised article or 279W substance. The governor of any prison will inform the police if he has any reason to believe that a visitor is attempting to smuggle drugs.