A parliamentary committee has issued a warning about the pervasive drug culture in prisons, labeling it as a significant threat to inmates’ lives. According to the Justice Committee, 39% of prisoners have easy access to drugs, which is severely impacting the ability of HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS) to maintain order and help inmates reintegrate into society.
The committee’s report highlighted the alarming human toll of the crisis, revealing that 16% of 833 deaths investigated between December 2022 and 2024 were linked to drug abuse. Additionally, the report noted a concerning trend where 11% of male and 19% of female inmates reported developing substance abuse issues after entering prison.
A key finding of the report was the growing use of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), which pose a significant threat due to their accessibility, affordability, and potency. The committee urged the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and HMPPS to take immediate action to enhance drug testing protocols in prisons and review prescription medication dispensing procedures to address vulnerabilities.
Further investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman revealed that out of 833 deaths studied, 136 were related to drug use. The committee has called for increased Mandatory Drug Testing rates and the implementation of wastewater-based surveillance to detect new substances quickly.
Concerns were also raised about the rising incidents of drones smuggling drugs, phones, weapons, and potentially explosives into prisons. Records show a 77% surge in drone sightings around prison facilities between 2019 and 2023.
Labour MP Andy Slaughter, Chair of the Justice Committee, emphasized the urgent need to address the deep-rooted drug crisis in prisons. He highlighted the detrimental impact of drug trafficking by criminal groups within prison walls and the failure to curb drug demand and combat the use of advanced drone technology.
The proliferation of highly potent NPS was identified as a driver of violence, debt, and fatal overdoses, underscoring the inadequacy of the current testing regime. Slaughter stressed that without comprehensive reforms and investments to disrupt drug supply networks, improve treatment options, enhance activities for inmates, and upgrade prison infrastructure, the drug crisis in prisons will persist, leading to instability and heightened risks.
The Justice Department has been contacted for a response regarding the committee’s findings.
