A new Labour government with a substantial majority has promised fresh approaches to critical issues including housing, education, transport, the environment, and crime. The administration's stated mantra is "Take Back Control," reflecting the belief that government can operate infrastructure and public services more effectively than the private sector.
However, the article criticises the government's apparent indifference toward drug law reform. The current framework relies on the 53-year-old Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which the author characterises as "never fit for purpose." This legislation has contributed to creating the modern drug market responsible for substantial crime and a "national disgrace" regarding drug-related deaths over the past 15 years.
The author argues the law is "outdated, unworkable" and consumes significant resources. Despite the government's stated commitment to reimagining policy, the Prime Minister has indicated no plans to examine drug law reform.
Public opinion increasingly supports treating drug use and supply as non-criminal matters, recognising that enforcement cannot resolve the situation. The author advocates for regulatory approaches similar to those used in other industries, suggesting government control of the drug market would be preferable to leaving it "entirely in the hands of criminals and profiteers."