§ Mr. David Marshallasked the Solicitor-General for Scotland if he will take steps to prosecute shopkeepers who sell kits which can be used for drug abuse, and in particular for cocaine snorting.
§ The Solicitor-Generalfor Scotland: The exposure for sale or selling of kits which can be used for drug abuse is a practice to be deplored. It is not, however, possible to say in general terms that such activity is necessarily one in respect of which criminal proceedings can or will be taken. Each such case which is drawn to the attention of the criminal authorities will be closely investigated with a view to possible prosecution. In certain circumstances even in the absence of the possession of controlled drugs or an intent to supply such drugs there could be a contravention of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, including section 19.