CONTROL OF 'DATE-RAPE' DRUG GAMMA HYDROXY BUTYRATE (GHB)

Early day motion 393, tabled 14 February 2000 by Baroness Tonge (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 98 members.

That this House is appalled that there is currently no control over the potentially lethal rape drug gamma hydroxy butyrate; is concerned that estimates show that 30 per cent. of drug rapes are committed using GHB; notes that over 1,000 women have reported drug rape in the United Kingdom; recognises that this figure is undoubtedly higher as the crime of rape is frequently not reported by victims; believes that current monitoring of GHB under the Medicines Control Agency does not prevent rapists from buying the drug over the counter; welcomes the steps taken by the Government last year to outlaw the use of the tranquilliser Rohypnol; and calls on the Government to enforce similar controls on GHB under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Signatures by party: Labour 61, Liberal Democrat 22, Conservative 3, Labour/Co-operative 3, UUP 3, Plaid Cymru 2, Scottish National Party 2, DUP 1, Independent Labour 1.