SCOTTISH Public Health Minister Joe FitzPatrick has accused the UK Government of “standing in the way of saving lives” by denying pleas for a safe drugs consumption room in Glasgow.
Responding to a question from SNP colleague Tom Arthur at Holyrood, FitzPatrick agreed the decision to deny the city a so-called “fix room” was shameful.
In 2018, a total of 1187 people died in Scotland from drug-related causes. Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government have been calling for a safe consumption room, which they hope will reduce the drug-related deaths and illnesses. The Home Office has repeatedly refused to amend the Misuse of Drugs Act to let the centre open.
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FitzPatrick called on the UK Government returned to Westminster after the December 12 election to allow for the act to be amended, or for drugs policy to be devolved.
Westminster’s Scottish Affairs Committee on Monday released a report that recommended a move towards decriminalisation of drugs for personal use, along with the opening of such a centre.
FitzPatrick said: “I just do not understand how the UK Government, which has recognised the benefits of these facilities, can stand in the way of saving lives.
“I call on the incoming UK Government to amend the Misuse of Drugs Act or to devolve the powers which will allow this Parliament to take a range of public health-focused initiatives which will save lives.
“I think the UK Government should be taking a public health approach to drugs right across the country, but if they won’t do it, then please devolve these powers so this Parliament can make these decisions.”
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