HC Deb 06 April 1998 vol 310 cc24-5W
Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his policy towards the establishment of(a) maximum and (b) minimum sentences for repeat convicted drug dealers. [37256]

Mr. George Howarth

We believe that severe punishment is appropriate for drug dealers. The maximum penalty for trafficking in Class A drugs is life imprisonment, and for Class B drugs 14 years' imprisonment. The Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 provides for a minimum sentence of 7 years' imprisonment for third and subsequent convictions for trafficking in Class A drugs. This provision was implemented on 1 October 1997.