The Labour Government’s approach to crime has revealed a distinct focus on violence against women and girls (VAWG) and antisocial behaviour, while illegal drug addiction appears to be less prioritised. Recent comments from Dame Diana Johnson, the Home Office minister, underscored the growing challenges posed by synthetic drugs on UK streets. Despite the acknowledged severity of the issue, Labour has yet to produce a comprehensive drug strategy, nearly two years into its administration. Critics highlight the void left by discarding the previous Conservative Government’s 10-year plan, which sought to tackle drug addiction by addressing its widespread societal harm through coordinated action across all sectors.

Observers note that Labour’s concentrated effort on VAWG reflects a politically resonant and emotionally charged issue that connects directly with the electorate. Conversely, drug addiction does not garner the same empathy; addicts, often marginalised and engaged in theft or other antisocial behaviours to sustain their dependency, rarely receive societal or political focus. This creates a challenge as addiction continues to devastate individuals and communities, leading to rising disorder on high streets, theft, and strained resources for law enforcement and businesses.

A recovering addict’s account at a recent National Business Crime Solution event illustrated the cyclical patterns of crime and punishment linked to untreated addiction. From repeated shoplifting to violent encounters during apprehension, addicts often find themselves trapped in a system that “pauses” their behaviour through imprisonment rather than addressing the root causes. Yet, without adequate rehabilitation opportunities and proactive measures, addiction perpetuates its grip on society. The speaker’s own recovery revealed the tremendous difficulty of breaking free, highlighting the urgent need for better solutions—especially in areas like Birmingham’s Hagley Road, described as overwhelmed by drug activity.

While Labour’s focus on VAWG is well-supported, the lack of a decisive drug strategy raises concerns about long-term public safety and community wellbeing. Drug misuse drives antisocial behaviour that erodes civic life, leaving businesses, public services, and families to grapple with the fallout. Questions remain over whether current and future policies will directly confront the toxic cycle of addiction or defer action, leaving society vulnerable to its ongoing harm.

Source: Professional Security