Pubdate: Mon, 06 Nov 2006
Source: Mirror, The (UK)
Copyright: 2006 The Mirror
Contact:  http://www.mirror.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1161
Author: Bob Roberts, Deputy Political Editor

DRUG TEST ALL KIDS

Scheme Cuts Use

RANDOM drug testing could soon be carried out on  schoolchildren.

Headteachers across England and Wales are being asked  to bring in 
the scheme after trials saw a drop in drug  use.

It is believed the results can uncover early signs  children are 
getting hooked.

And experts say random tests encourage youngsters to  turn down drugs 
outside school if they could be checked  the next day.

Peter Walker, an ex-headteacher and government  consultant for the 
project, said: "It doesn't cause any  harm, a child still has a right 
to say no, indeed so  does a parent.

"It doesn't disrupt the running of the school, it's  relatively cheap 
to do and brings great benefits like  improved performances."

Under the voluntary scheme, saliva is tested for  cannabis, 
amphetamines, morphine and cocaine. It costs  #13 a time and results 
take 20 minutes.

Pilot schemes have shown improvements in behaviour and  reductions in drug use.

The Government plans come amid research which suggests  around one in 
four children have tried drugs by the age  of 15.

But charity DrugScope has warned that testing in  schools is an 
"extreme measure".
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MAP posted-by: Elaine