Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by David Davis (Conservative). It was answered on Monday, 23 May 2005 on behalf of the Home Office.

Drugs Intervention Programme

Question: The United States Government have managed to reduce drug use among schoolchildren by 17 per cent. in three years. What has happened to drug use among schoolchildren in this country during eight years under this Government?

Answer: According to the latest schools survey, drug use among schoolchildren is down, which we will all welcome. It is down from 21 per cent. to a regrettable figure of 18 per cent., which Members in all parts of the House will still regard as too high. We have to tackle the supply of drugs and make sure that where drugs are used, the situation is dealt with appropriately. We also need to educate our children and young people about the impact of crime on them and their families, and through programmes such as the ““Frank”” campaign, straightforward information is given to schoolchildren. This is not an easy issue to deal with, and if the right hon. Gentleman is suggesting that it is, he is wrong. However, we are dealing with it.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 434 c409
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Children Drugs Misuse Drug interventions programme Crime prevention Rehabilitation
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk