§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when a drugs test was last carried out on the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders; how many soldiers 489W were tested; how many (a) officers and (b) other ranks failed the test; what actions have been taken against those failing; and if he will make a statement. [2594]
§ Mr. SoamesA random drugs test was conducted on the 1st Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders on 31 October 1995. Three hundred and ninety two all ranks were tested of which no officers tested positive, but 22 other ranks did. The commanding officer will consider each of the soldier's cases on their merits before recommending to retain or discharge them.