The UK Government has banned new synthetic opioids, including 14 nitazenes, in an effort to prevent drug deaths. Those involved in the production or supply of these drugs could face severe penalties. Scotland, which has the highest drug deaths in Europe, hopes that this ban will act as a deterrent. Statistics show that the number of suspected drug deaths in Scotland increased by 10% last year.
New synthetic opioids have been banned by the UK Government in a bid to prevent drug deaths . Some 15 additional synthetic opioids , including 14 nitazenes, are now controlled as Class A drugs. Anyone involved in production or supply of these drugs could face life in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
It comes after figures showed the number of Scots battling opioid addictions has flatlined in recent years despite repeated government pledges to help those with drug dependencies The synthetic drugs which have been banned can be 50 times as addictive as heroin. Scotland has the worst drug deaths in Europe. UK Government Scotland Office minister John Lamont said: “Super-strong synthetic opioids have been posing a growing threat in Scotland and we hope their elevation today to Class-A banned substances will act as a further deterrent. “Illegal drugs destroy lives and devastate communities. We are committed to preventing drug use by supporting people through treatment and recovery and tackling the supply of illegal drugs, as set out in our 10-year Drug Strategy backed by a record £3billion funding.” Statistics published last week showed that the number of suspected drug deaths in Scotland rose by 10 per cent last year. There were 1,197 suspected drug deaths between January and December 2023, 105 more than during the same period in 202
UK Government Synthetic Opioids Drug Deaths Ban Scotland Nitazenes Penalties Deterrent Drug Addiction Statistics
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Horror drug death toll in Scotland must be tackled at the rootRecord View says the Tory austerity drive since 2010 has decimated our public realm.
Read more »
BBC Scotland's Nick Sheridan laid to rest after death aged 32He suffered a brain aneurysm while jogging.
Read more »
BBC Scotland's Nick Sheridan laid to rest after death aged 32He suffered a brain aneurysm while jogging.
Read more »
El Chapo's' granddaughter on hunt for Loch Ness monster during Scotland tripShe ventured north of the border and took a video of herself with Edinburgh castle in the background after visiting the Johnny Walker experience.
Read more »
Race to rehome outlawed XL Bullies in Scotland runs out of timeFresh restrictions on the breed come into force, making it illegal to sell, exchange, gift or abandon the dogs in Scotland. Dogs that did not find homes are facing being put down or confined to kennels for life.
Read more »
Seagull attack bursts tourist's lip after birds swipe mini egg from mouthThree birds attacked the woman while she was visiting Scotland and burst her lip.
Read more »