Drug-using offenders who test positive will be required to attend a compulsory drug assessment by specialist workers and get help into treatment even if they are not charged, the Home Office said today.
Those who fail to provide a sample or comply with a required assessment face a fine of up to £2,500 and/or up to three months in prison.
Courts will also be able to deny bail unless the offender agrees to a drug assessment and follow-up treatment.
The new measures are part of the Drugs Act 2005 and will come into force from tomorrow.
Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire police will be the first to carry out drug testing on arrest and compulsory drugs assessment.
The measures will be expanded to other areas from the end of March next year.