Liz Kendall – 2021 Comments on the Number of Drug Deaths

The comments made by Liz Kendall, the Shadow Social Care Minister, on 3 August 2021.

These heartbreaking figures are a stark reminder of the devastating impact drugs have on families and communities across the country.

Drug treatment services are vital not just for those who are themselves struggling with substance abuse issues, but also the wider community. Yet, a decade of Tory cuts to drug treatment and addiction services and chronic underfunding of local councils has left us ill-equipped to tackle the scourge of addiction.

The Government must take action now. We need a new settlement for public health services, a clear target to reduce inequalities and action to minimise harm and help prevent so many dying from addiction.