HC Deb 02 December 1987 vol 123 cc620-1W
30. Mr. John Carlisle

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is taking any new initiatives to curb drug abuse in sport; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Moynihan

I and Sebastian Coe, vice-chairman of the Sports Council, carried out a review of drug abuse in sport this summer. Our report was endorsed by the ministerial group on the misuse of drugs and by the Sports Council. As a result, the council plans to have a revised, independent testing regime in place by 1 April 1988. I welcome the council's speedy response to our report.

Drug abuse in sport is an international problem. I am pursuing the need for international co-operation with Sports Ministers and a number of international bodies of sport. I am encouraged by the positive attitude they are adopting.