Drugs users face block on housing

Housing organisations may refuse to house homeless drug users if
Home Office guidance relating to the use of controlled drugs in
accommodation becomes law, St Mungo’s homelessness charity has
warned.

Under proposals out to consultation, section 8 (d) of the Misuse of
Drugs Act 1971 would change to make it an offence to allow the
administration or use of all controlled drugs on all premises.

Currently the act bans the consumption or possession of cannabis
and opium.

Mike McCall, St Mungo’s director of operations, said: “The changes
in the law could make the situation worse with some housing
agencies unwilling to house rough sleepers who are known drug users
because of the risk of prosecution.”

The consultation ends on 11 November.