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Rohypnol

Answer

Flunitrazepam ('Rohypnol'), together with the other benzodiazepines, is a class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs informs the Secretary of State for the Home Department, my right hon. Friend the Member for Maidenhead (Mrs May), and keeps under review the situation in the UK with respect to controlled drugs, including benzodiazepines. Its report ““Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault”” (2007) considered the use of benzodiazepines and indicated that adequate controls are in place for these drugs. The report is available at:"http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/alcohol-drugs/drugs/acmd1/drug-facilitated-sexual-assault/"This Government are committed to tackling sexual offences, and other forms of violence against women and girls. The 2003 Sexual Offences Act makes it a separate offence to give someone any substance without their consent and with the intention of stupefying them so that sexual activity can take place. We are also working closely with the Association of Chief Police Officers to look at ways to improve police investigations of rape, including cases where drugs are a contributing factor.The Government's Drug Strategy sets out a multifaceted approach to tackling drug use under three themes: reducing demand, restricting supply and building recovery.FRANK, the drug information and advice service, has information on tranquillisers (which includes Rohypnol) available on its website at:"www.talktofrank.com"We are currently running a campaign to promote the FRANK service.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

86000; 537 c777-8W

Session

2010-12

Subjects

Flunitrazepam

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk