What are synthetic drugs?
New, synthetic versions of harmful drugs, including synthetic opioids and synthetic cannabinoids, are increasingly found in UK’s illegal drug markets.

A debate on reforming the law on homicide in England and Wales will be held in Westminster Hall on 30 June 2016 at 1330hrs. The member in charge of the debate is Alex Chalk.
Reforming the law on homicide (155 KB , PDF)
Murder and manslaughter are two offences which constitute homicide in England and Wales alongside other specific homicide offences such as infanticide and causing death by dangerous driving. Currently in England and Wales, a conviction for murder carries a mandatory life sentence.
Recent calls for reform have considered rules on joint enterprise, mandatory sentencing, proposals for degrees of murder based on the intention of the killer, and wider discretion for the courts to consider cases where the killing was reckless rather than intentional.
This debate pack provides a brief overview of the offences of murder and manslaughter and the recent reviews and consultations which have considered option for reform. It also contains a selection of relevant parliamentary business and press and media articles which may be of interest in relation to this debate.
Debate packs are intended to provide a summary or overview of the issues being debated and identify any relevant briefings including press and parliamentary material. A more detailed briefing may be prepared for a Member on request to the Library.
Reforming the law on homicide (155 KB , PDF)
New, synthetic versions of harmful drugs, including synthetic opioids and synthetic cannabinoids, are increasingly found in UK’s illegal drug markets.
The Controlled Drugs (Procedure for Specification) Bill 2024-2025 had its second reading on Friday 7 March 2025. It was considered by a Public Bill Committee on 25 June 2025 and report stage is scheduled for 11 July 2025. This is a private members' bill.
A general debate on mobile phone thefts is scheduled to take place in the House of Commons Chamber on 3 July 2025.