§ Mr. Evennettasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has held any discussions with representatives of sporting organisations concerning drug abuse by sports competitors; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneYes, but action lies primarily with the Sports Council on the Government's behalf. The council has given and continues to give a positive and firm lead in combating drug abuse in sport. The Sports Council's drug abuse advisory committee is designated the United Kingdom anti-doping committee and brings together a unique blend of sporting and medical expertise in drugs and sport. In March 1984 the council, with my full support, adopted a resolution obliging all sports to introduce random drug checks, and at a recent symposium on drug abuse for governing bodies of sport the Council announced that it was stepping up its campaign to stamp out this pernicious practice.
I supported the adoption of a European anti-doping charter for sport at a meeting of European Sports Ministers in May 1984. Other countries and international sports organisations must follow the examples set by the Sports Council and the Council of Europe if sport is to rid itself of drug abuse. I also look to sports organisations in this country to comply fully with the Sports Council's resolution and to make sport in the United Kingdom an example to the rest of the world.