HC Deb 14 November 1984 vol 67 cc289-90W
Mr. Greenway

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he has taken on matters within his responsibility and what further steps he proposes to curb glue sniffing and solvent abuse.

Mr. John Patten

My reply of 26 July at columns 770–71, to my hon. Friend, gave a progress report on action being taken by the Government to deal with the problem of solvent misuse in England and Wales. Since then the National Children's Bureau post referred to in the reply has been filled. We have also issued, through a circular to health and local authorities, guidance on the distribution of a Health Education Council leaflet giving advice to parents and professionals concerned with children misusing solvents.

The wide range of measures taken will continue to help parents and workers to co-operate more effectively to discourage solvent misuse through education and persuasion.