The British government has stated it will not block drug testing facilities from being implemented at UK music festivals.
Drug safety charities like The Loop keep calling on the government to find a way to reduce the risk of drug-related deaths among young people at clubs, festivals etc. A Recent research conducted by The Loop has revealed an increase of deaths caused by drugs in night clubs.
During a debate in Parliament last Friday, 6th July, Conservative minister Nick Hurd said that, although there is no plan to soften existing drug laws, the government can “do more to reduce the risk of harm to young people at festivals“. As Complete Music Update reports, “the decision on whether or not to allow drug testing on festival sites lay with local police forces.”
The first to raise the issue was Labour MP Thangam Debbonaire, who solicited all clubs and festivals to make onsite testing. “Giving everyone clear information about the substances they intend to consume helps reduce risk and prevent harm—we can do it for alcohol and we can do it for other drugs within the current legal frameworks.” She then added: “Let’s make it a requirement that festivals and, if possible, nightclubs, have to ensure there is drug safety testing available for every event they run.”
Watch the parliamentary debate below!
