A committee of Members of Parliament has raised concerns about the prevalent drug issue in prisons, urging the need to break the culture of acceptance surrounding it. According to the Justice Committee, a significant percentage of prisoners have easy access to drugs, leading to challenges in maintaining control and aiding in the rehabilitation of offenders within HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS).
A recent report highlighted the severe consequences of the drug crisis, with a considerable number of deaths in prisons being linked to drug use. The report also revealed a concerning rise in the consumption of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), posing a volatile threat due to their accessibility and potency.
The committee emphasized the urgency for the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and HMPPS to enhance drug testing protocols in prisons and conduct a thorough review of medication dispensing procedures to prevent loopholes.
Additionally, the committee called for an increase in Mandatory Drug Testing rates and the implementation of wastewater-based surveillance to detect new substances. Concerns were also raised about the rise in drone sightings near prisons, potentially facilitating the delivery of illicit items like drugs, weapons, and explosives.
Andy Slaughter MP, Chair of the Justice Committee, highlighted the alarming levels of the drugs crisis in prisons, stressing the need to address the systemic issues fueling the trade and use of drugs. Without immediate reforms and investments to combat supply networks, improve treatment provision, and enhance prison conditions, the committee warned that prisons would continue to struggle with instability and safety issues related to the drugs crisis.
The Justice Department has been contacted for further comments.