Rochdale MP calls for overhaul of addiction treatment system

The Labour MP for Rochdale, Tony Lloyd, is demanding far greater investment in the UK’s treatment system for those suffering from addiction.

The veteran MP, who previously served in the government of Tony Blair, has issued a statement in which he said: “Addiction must be afforded the same consideration as any other health condition, yet access to addiction treatment and recovery is a post code lottery”.

Continuing he writes, “We have a pragmatic interest and we have a moral interest to address the tragic impact of addiction on individuals, children, families and communities, and that must include proper investment in addiction treatment and recovery services”.

Lloyd has pointed to how for every £1 spent on addiction treatment, the government will save at least £2.76 from expenditure saved on crime, health, and benefits.

His calls come after Dame Carol Black’s recent ‘Independent Review of Drugs’ called for major, sustained and protected investment in the drugs treatment system over the next five years.  The review recommended investment of £1.78 billion into the sector.