Illegal substances pose an enduring policy challenge for governments globally, sparking an ongoing discussion about whether addressing their usage should primarily involve criminal justice measures or focus on public health concerns.
Amidst alarming levels of drug-related fatalities throughout the UK, particularly with Scotland topping European statistics, the Conservative government has maintained a primarily restrictive and punitive stance, rooted in the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This differs from the more public health-oriented approaches adopted by certain European nations and beyond, particularly concerning cannabis. The government’s strategy has drawn scrutiny in Scotland, where the devolved Scottish National Party (SNP) administration advocates for greater emphasis on health-focused policies.
Key features of the report include:
- Policy background and the challenge of synthetic opioids
- Where the political parties stand
- Devolved nations
- Stakeholder views
- Dods Insight – Daniella Bennett Remington, Political Consultant for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport
This Dods Political Intelligence report examines the UK government’s approach to illegal drugs including the policy framework, recent developments and challenges, the positions of political parties, and a range of stakeholder views.