Anti-drugs Strategy

HC Deb 25 May 1999 vol 332 cc126-7W

20. Mr. Alexander

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the Government's anti-drug abuse strategy. [84147]

Mr. Macdonald

The Government recently enhanced the approach to tackling drug misuse in Scotland with the publication of "Tackling Drugs in Scotland: Action in Partnership". This document establishes a new framework of co-operation across agencies and communities in the implementation of a programme of comprehensive action throughout Scotland.

From 1 July 1999, it will be for the Scottish Parliament to consider the strategy set out in "Tackling Drugs in Scotland: Action in Partnership" and continue the task of reducing drug misuse in Scotland.

Mrs. Ann Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met the United Kingdom Anti-Drugs Co-ordinator to discuss the implementation of Her Majesty Government's anti-drugs strategy in Scotland. [84131]

Mr. Macdonald

The Secretary of State has not met formally with the United Kingdom Anti-Drugs Co-ordinator, but the former Minister for health and the arts in Scotland, my hon. Friend the Member for Strathkelvin and Bearsden (Mr. Galbraith), has discussed Scotland's contribution to the UK Government's drugs strategy with Mr. Hellawell. This is set out in "Tackling Drugs in Scotland: Action in Partnership", which was launched in March 1999.

From 1 July 1999, it will be for the Scottish Parliament to consider the strategy set out in this document.