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Problem drug use in Scotland inquiry

Inquiry

The Committee will consider the following questions:

  • What are the unique drivers of drugs abuse in Scotland? How is drugs misuse in Scotland different from the rest of the UK?
  • To what extent does UK-wide drugs legislation affect the Scottish Government’s ability to address the specific drivers of drugs abuse in Scotland?
  • What is the relationship between poverty and deprivation and problem drug use?
  • What role could reserved social security policy play in addressing problem drug use?
  • How is the drugs market in Scotland changing? How well do current regulations meet the challenges of new trends in drug disruption, such as the “dark web”. Are any changes needed to the current regulatory landscape?
  • Are there other areas of reserved policy which is influencing the Scottish Government’s ability to address drugs misuse in Scotland?
  • How effectively do the UK and Scottish Governments work together to tackle drugs misuse in Scotland? Do the UK and Scottish Governments share best practice, information and policy outcomes to help address drugs misuse in Scotland?
  • Would further devolution of powers enable the Scottish Government more effectively address drugs misuse in Scotland and tailor their approach to Scotland’s needs?
  • What could Scotland learn from the approach taken to tackle drug misuse in other countries?