HC Deb 24 October 1984 vol 65 c604W
Mr. Wareing

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many special investigators are engaged on combating illegal drug smuggling at seaports and airports in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hayhoe

At 1 October 1984 the investigation division of Customs and Excise included a total of 233 posts in teams engaged in the investigation of drug smuggling. Most of these posts are in London; a minority are in the provinces. At 31 March 1984 there were in addition 6,552 customs staff at seaports, airports and inland premises throughout the United Kingdom whose duties include the prevention of drug smuggling. Since then 60 additional staff have been allocated to the improvement of preventive controls of passengers and freight. In 1985–86 there are to be a further 100 new posts which will be used to boost controls in the fight against drug smuggling.