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Scotland Backs Decriminalising Personal Drug Use Despite Death Surge

By Drooid · Sep 25, 2026, 10:21 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Swinney Supports Decriminalisation

First Minister John Swinney said his government supports decriminalising personal drug use.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he does not support decriminalising drugs for personal use.
Scotland's latest drug-death figures showed an 11% increase.
Scotland opened the UK's first safer consumption facility in Glasgow.
Scotland announced its first drugs-checking facility will open soon in Glasgow.

Summary

Reform UK Calls Vote

Nitazenes caused 247 deaths in 2025, over one-fifth of all drug fatalities.
Reform UK holds 17 MSPs and must reach 25 to trigger a drug policy vote.
Reform UK called for a no-confidence vote in drugs minister Maree Todd after the death surge.
Government reports a significant rise in rehabilitation beds after its recent investment programme.
Liberal Democrat Alex Cole-Hamilton warned nitazene deaths jumped from nine to 247, demanding stronger action.

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Swinney Supports Decriminalisation

First Minister John Swinney said his government supports decriminalising personal drug use.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he does not support decriminalising drugs for personal use.
Scotland's latest drug-death figures showed an 11% increase.
Scotland opened the UK's first safer consumption facility in Glasgow.
Scotland announced its first drugs-checking facility will open soon in Glasgow.

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