There will be a general debate on the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in the Commons Chamber on Thursday 17 June 2021. The subject for the debate has been nominated by the Backbench Business Committee. The Members initiating the debate are Jeff Smith MP and Crispin Blunt MP.
Commons Library debate pack - Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (367 KB , PDF)
This briefing is prepared ahead of a General debate on the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. The subject of the debate was nominated by the Backbench Business Committee, and it will be led by Jeff Smith and Crispin Blunt.
This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the main piece of legislation through which illicit drugs are controlled across the UK.
There have been calls in recent years for a review and reform of the law in this area. Supporters of this change state that the law is not working, and a new approach is needed. They highlight high levels of drug deaths and harms in the UK and call for a more health-based focus of drugs policy, with greater investment in harm reduction policies and treatment.
The Government has said that it supports an evidence-based approach to drugs policy and recognises that urgent action is needed to tackle current issues around drug misuse. However, it has said that it has no plans to review the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
Commons Library debate pack - Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (367 KB , PDF)
A Westminster Hall debate has been scheduled for 1.30pm on Thursday 8 June on preventing obesity and fatty liver disease. The subject for the debate has been chosen by the Backbench Business Committee, and the debate will be opened by Wayne David MP.
A Westminster Hall debate has been scheduled for Tuesday 23 May on the Healthy Start scheme and increases in the cost of living. The debate will be opened by Andrew Western MP.
A debate has been scheduled for 18 May on access to psilocybin treatments. The subject for the debate has been chosen by the Backbench Business Committee, and the debate will be opened by Charlotte Nichols MP, Crispin Blunt MP and Ronnie Cowan MP.
