HC Deb 28 October 1985 vol 84 c337W
Mr. Tom Cox

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what training is being given to prison hospital doctors and staff for dealing with drug addicts who are sent to prison.

Mr. Mellor

Prison medical officers at establishments which receive direct committals from the courts are experienced in the recognition and treatment of the physical symptoms of drug dependency, and many have received psychiatric training or experience. All medical officers are encouraged, and allowed opportunity, to attend external refresher and development courses relevant to this and other aspects of their work. Hospital officers, who work under medical direction, receive theoretical and practical instruction in the nursing care of drug dependents as part of their basic training.