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)
Covid-19 status certification has been proposed as a means of reducing the risk of transmitting the Covid-19 virus in a number of settings. This briefing explores the Government's policy on certification. It also provides discussion on the scientific evidence and other issues associated with the use of certification.
Read the briefing for the upcoming debate on policies to reduce baby loss on the 20th of July in Westminster Hall.
The Health and Care Bill 2021-22 [Bill 140 of 2021-22] was introduced in the House of Commons on 6 July 2021. Second reading is scheduled for Wednesday 14 July 2021. This paper explains the Bill's provisions and includes comment and reactions.
