Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 1
1
Rejected
Adopt a balanced, evidence-based approach to tackling problem drug use.
Recommendation
We call on both Governments to adopt a balanced, evidence-based approach to problem drug use. (Conclusion, Paragraph 35)
Government Response Summary
The government rejected the implied call for legislative changes to permit harm reduction measures like safer drug consumption rooms or the provision of drug paraphernalia, stating such actions would be unlawful under current legislation and it has no plans for changes.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
Under section 9A of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 it is unlawful to supply articles which may be used for the administration of a controlled drug. The provision of tourniquets and other such equipment including safer inhalation pipes would constitute a breach of the law. The UK Government does not support drug consumption rooms (DCRs) or the expansion of facilities at The Thistle to enable users to inhale drugs and has no plans to make legislative changes to enable the provision of such paraphernalia as part of its operation. The Scottish Government has stated that in order to supply such equipment, Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) would need to apply to the Lord Advocate for the necessary exemptions; how to respond to such a request would be a matter for the Lord Advocate. Drug checking licence for The Thistle