§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he is able to estimate the cost per year to the National Health Service of patients suffering from the effects of illegal drugs.
§ Mr. FreemanBecause drug misuse has many different effects, which will be treated by a wide range of specific and general medical services, it is not possible to estimate the overall cost to the National Health Service.
387WHowever, since 1984 we have committed nearly £65 million of new money to preventing drug misuse and providing services.