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The targets for the number of drug treatments and testing orders have not been met, according to the National Probation Directorate, writes Clare Jerrom.

Funding of £36 million a year was allocated for an expected 6,000 orders per year as part of the UK drugs strategy. A further £4 million was granted to cover court costs for the orders by the Treasury.

But between April 2001 and March 2002 it is expected there will be just 5,000 orders, according to Anne Williams, the directorate's drugs implementation advisor.

Speaking at a conference on tackling drug related crimes in London, Williams said that a shortage of skilled and experienced staff had made implementation difficult, particularly in London.

But about 25 per cent of probation areas had exceeded their targets.