Drugs charities have accused the government of using the new Drugs Bill as a “political vote winner” for the next election rather than focussing on effective treatment and prevention, writes Maria Ahmed.
Critics are concerned that drugs legislation is being placed “at the centre” of the crime reduction agenda and warn that it will not lead to improved care.
The Drugs Bill, which is currently waiting for a second reading, will introduce powers to test drug offenders on arrest and require those who test positive to undergo an assessment by a drugs worker.
Other proposals will strengthen the law against drug dealers by giving the police greater powers, and put people on antisocial behaviour orders with drug misuse problems in treatment.
A source from one charity said: “This is part of an election strategy to put drugs into the heart of the criminal justice manifesto instead of a broader social welfare and health agenda.”
Charities including Drugscope and Turning Point are concerned the bill, unveiled last month in the Queen’s Speech, could be rushed too quickly through parliament, and are lobbying for alternative proposals.
They are calling for the bill to include proposals on meeting complex needs such as mental health, better after-care, greater use of heroin prescribing and more investment in staff training including GPs.
Details of government consultations
21 August 2008
Private Member Bills
25 July 2008
Government Legislation
25 July 2008
