“Cambridge scientist calls for ethical debate on drugs bought on internet that boost alertness and attention
Universities must investigate measures, including random dope testing, to tackle the increasing use of cognitive enhancment drugs by students for exams, a leading behavioural neuroscientist warns.
Student use of drugs, such as Ritalin and modafinil, available over the internet and used [...]
http://www.ideaswales.org.uk/documents/Ideas%20Wales%20%20-%20Substance%20Misuse.pdf
Thoughtful paper that should put the cat amongst the pigeons. The recommendations are cited below:
5. Recommendations: In summary, we would advance the following recommendations as a way forward:
(1) Ensure that the Substance Misuse Policy incorporates all substances, including tobacco and caffeine.
(2) Create a clearer distinction between substance use and substance misuse, and target resources at [...]
A solid piece looking at the international implications of drug prohibition – it argues powerfully that the current position in terms of total prohibition is unsustainable.
“The tragic irony of this situation is that while prohibitionist drug laws are lauded as necessary to protect young people, they do the exact opposite. Speaking as someone [...]
The government could extend smokefree legislation to include areas like the entrances of buildings, it has announced. [From Govt considering smokefree extension]
In the United Kingdom, as in many places, cannabis use is considered substantially within a criminal justice rather than a public health paradigm with prevention policy embodied in the Misuse of Drugs Act. In 2002 the maximum custodial sentence tariff for cannabis possession under the Act was reduced from 5 to 2 years. [...]
“The overriding finding is that treatment reduces the harmful behaviours that are associated with problem drug use.The majority of treatment seekers received care- coordinated treatment, expressed satisfaction with their care, were retained in treatment beyond three months, reported significant and substantial reductions in drug use and offending, and improvements in mental well-being and social functioning. [...]
Are the Tories too tough on drugs? | Jeremy Sare | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk.
Guardian writer, Jeremy Sare reviews what appears to be the emerging Tory policy drawing out what appears to be its focus on abstinence.
Analysis: Is the war on drugs over? – politics.co.uk.
Interesting article from the main stream – argues that the war on drugs is wrong headed.
“It was simple, once. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 put into place principles agreed around the world at the UN’s first convention on the issue. The ‘war on drugs’ approach, reaffirmed [...]
Interesting looking paper on how the Government has tried to performance manage us all – it argues that targets have benefitted us all.
IngentaConnect Drug policy and performance management: A necessary evil?.