Topical question asked in the House of Commons, by Paul Flynn (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 6 December 2010 on behalf of the Home Office.

Topical Questions

Question: Do the Government really intend to end the obligation for scientists to be members of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs? Will this not result in the failing Government drugs policy ending up being evidence-free and prejudice-rich?

Answer: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question, because it allows me to underline the importance that the Government place on scientific advice and the important role that the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs plays in the formulation of our drugs policies. I can make it absolutely clear that our proposals are intended to add greater flexibility to the provision of advice given to government, in order to ensure that we are able to get more effective policies, given the changing nature of the drugs threat. The proposals were drawn up in conjunction with the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs, and I should add that they have the support of the Government's chief scientific officer, Professor John Beddington.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 520 c19-20
Session: 2010-12
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs Scientists Data protection
Link: View this Topical question on www.publications.parliament.uk