§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what proposals she has to restrict the promotion and sale of anabolic agents designed to improve sporting prowess.
§ Mr. Sackville[holding answer 6 February 1995]Anabolic steroids are prescription-only medicines, and their promotion and sale is regulated by the Medicines Act 1968. A failure to comply with the regulations can be a criminal offence. Products which purport to be anabolic steroids but which in fact are not may also be subject to the requirements of the regulations if medicinal claims are made on behalf of such products.
Enforcement of the Medicines Act is the responsibility of the Medicines Control Agency. Enforcement action against persons who illegally manufacture, sell or promote anabolic steroids is a high priority for the agency.
My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department announced on 2 November that he intended to bring anabolic steroids within tha controls of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. The necessary amending regulations will be brought before Parliament in due course.