§ Mr. RathboneTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been done to inform all of those concerned with drugs misuse about ecstasy, its symptoms and its harmful effects.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythA comprehensive programme of information and education to prevent and discourage drug misuse is undertaken by the Health Education Board for Scotland. Material is regularly updated and contains information about "ecstasy". The Chief Medical Officer recently issued to every doctor and final year medical student in Scotland revised guidelines on the clinical management of drug misuse and dependence, which include information on the problems associated with the use of "ecstasy". The Scottish Office Education Department makes specific grant available for the in-service training of teachers in health education, including education about drugs, which keeps abreast of trends in drug misuse. Training for police officers covers aspects of drug misuse including current trends in drug taking and symptoms and harmful effects. The Scottish Drugs Forum, which is funded by the Scottish Office Home and Health Department, has produced a comprehensive guide to drugs currently used by drug takers, for use by drug workers.