Medicines

The Minister for Secondary Care, Karin Smyth, opened the debate by moving that the draft Human Medicines (Amendments Relating to Naloxone and Transfers of Functions) Regulations 2024 be approved. She explained that the regulations would expand access to naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses the effects of opioid overdoses. Smyth highlighted the devastating impact of drug misuse, noting that drug-related deaths in England have doubled over the past 10 years. She argued that the proposed changes would enable more services and professionals to supply naloxone, improving access for people at risk and their loved ones, ultimately saving lives. The shadow Minister, Dr Ben Spencer, expressed support for the regulations, stating that they would directly save many lives. He praised the incremental public health improvements that make a real difference, and highlighted the importance of naloxone in addressing the high rates of drug-related deaths and suicides. Spencer welcomed the expansion of access to naloxone, but sought assurances from the Minister about the training and aftercare provided to those administering the medication. The debate that followed saw broad consensus across the House. The Liberal Democrat spokesperson, Bobby Dean, welcomed the measures, emphasizing the life-saving potential of naloxone and the need to expand access further, potentially to groups such as taxi drivers and nightclub staff. The DUP's Jim Shannon provided a Northern Ireland perspective, highlighting the worrying trends in drug-related deaths in the region and the importance of protecting public health staff who administer naloxone. Siân Berry of the Green Party also supported the changes, but encouraged the Government to keep the regulations under continuous review and consider further expansions of access. The former Northern Ireland Health Minister, Robin Swann, reiterated his support for the measures, stating that they would have significant life-changing consequences. In her closing remarks, the Minister, Karin Smyth, thanked the Opposition spokespeople for their support and acknowledged the points raised about training, data reporting, and the need for ongoing review. She expressed confidence that the regulations would save lives and reduce drug-related deaths, and commended them to the House, which subsequently approved the draft regulations.