DrugScope is calling on people to ask their local MP to support a parliamentary motion recognising the benefits of drug treatment.
Dr Brian Iddon MP (Lab) has tabled Early Day Motion (EDM) Number 1071 which recognises the important contribution of drug treatment services and calls for continued public investment in evidence-based drug treatment.
A recent DrugScope/ICM poll (March 2009) found that three-quarters of the public agreed that 'investment in drug treatment is a sensible use of government money, so long as it benefits individuals, families and communities'.
EDM's can be used by MPs to express a view on a subject and to demonstrate parliamentary support for an issue or cause. MPs, in addition to those who table and co-sponsor an EDM, can sign in support of an EDM.
The full text of EDM 1071 reads:
“That this House welcomes the progress made to improve the availability and quality of drug treatment and the contribution made by drug-service providers to the health and well-being of the nation; recognises that drug treatment is cost-effective and brings significant benefits to individuals, families, neighbourhoods and communities; believes that an effective treatment system must provide a range of evidence-based services, as different approaches will suit different people at different points in their journey out of drug dependency; and urges hon. Members to commit to continued public investment in drug treatment, informed by the best available research.”
Original signatories (co-sponsors) to the EDM included Peter Lilley MP (Con), Kevin Barron MP (Lab), Paul Mann MP (Lab), Lynne Jones MP (Lab), Sandra Gidley MP (Lib Dem) Paul Rowen MP (Lib Dem). The list of MPs who have so far signed in support of EDM 1071 can be viewed here.
You can help by writing to or emailing your local MP asking them to support EDM 1071. If you would find it helpful, you can download a template letter/email we have produced, which you can adapt to your own needs.
You can find your local MP and get details on their email or constituency postal address by clicking here. Letters can also be sent to MPs at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
Not all MPs will sign EDMs - for example if they are a Minister, Parliamentary Private Secretary or a government whip - but they can still state whether they support the issue raised.
Please let us know if you have contacted your MP and whether you have received a response. You can email Andy McNicoll at andrewm@drugscope.org.uk or call 0207 520 7563.
Please also feel free to get in touch with Andy should require any more information on the EDM or further guidance on how to contact your MP.
