Three Holyrood committees to examine drug deaths and problem drug use

The sessions, which will question the Scottish and UK governments, as well as the new chair of the Scottish Drugs Deaths Taskforce (SDDT), will focus on what progress has been made so far, including implementation of SDDT’s recommendations, as well as what more can be done to address the drug crisis.

The committees are working together, recognising the issues which lie behind this crisis stem from different policy areas and require a coordinated approach. Each committee will send representatives to question witnesses and consider the progress made.

The committee will question Kit Malthouse MP, UK minister of state for crime, policing and probation, on the afternoon of 1 February.

On the following day, MSPs will then question the new chair of the Scottish Drug Deaths Taskforce, David Strang, followed by the Scottish government’s minister for drugs policy, Angela Constance MSP.

Speaking as the joint sitting of the three committees was announced, Criminal Justice Committee convener, Audrey Nicoll MSP, who will chair the joint sitting, said: “Problem drug use, and tragically, drugs deaths blight too many families and communities in Scotland.

“We know that the roots of these issues are complex and historical, and that the Taskforce recommendations touch many policy areas.

“Implementing the wide ranging solutions requires a co-ordinated approach by Parliament and Government.

“Addressing this drugs crisis is a priority for our committees. We want to support the individuals and families affected, as well as the agencies who work with them and the government in taking the right actions to reduce drug deaths and tackle the misuse of drugs.

“I hope these sessions allow us to see some progress in this area, perhaps finding consensus and focus on what more can be done.”