§ Mr. McmasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on recent levels of drugs-related crime and violence within the 'K? Division of Strathclyde police; and what measures he has put, is putting or will put in place to support the police and the local community in their endeavours to tackle these problems. [19034]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonMy right hon. Friend fully understands the concerns of Paisley residents about increased drugs-related crime, which often involves violence, in their areas. He trusts that the police will receive the support of the local community in the actions which they are taking to curb346W such incidents and to bring the perpetrators to justice. He fully supports the chief constable of Strathclyde police in the mounting of "Operation Dragon", which will, it is to be hoped, result in the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the recent spate of shootings. My right hon. Friend will continue to seek to ensure that the police have adequate resources and equipment to tackle the full range of policing requirements for which they have responsibility.