3rd report - Problem drug use in Scotland follow-up: Glasgow’s Safer Drug Consumption Facility
Select Committee
Scottish Affairs Committee
HC 630
16 September 2025
Government response
4th Special Report - Problem drug use in Scotland follow-up: Glasgow’s Safer Drug Consumption Facility: Government Response · published 20 Nov 2025
Recommendations & Conclusions
2 results
2
Conclusion
Deferred
Mandate independent evaluation findings determine future of The Thistle safe drug consumption facility.
Conclusion
We recognise that the opening of The Thistle on a pilot-basis presents an opportunity to test the effectiveness of SDCFs in Glasgow’s unique context. We believe the evidence provided by the independent evaluation panel should be determinative in discussions about …
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Government Response Summary
The government deflected by discussing a Home Office licence issued for drug checking services at 55 Hunter Street, Glasgow, while clarifying that this licence does not cover The Thistle's safer drug consumption service.
Scotland Office
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3
Conclusion
Deferred
Articulate The Thistle's rationale and objectives clearly and consistently to improve public understanding.
Conclusion
A range of rationales have been given for why there is a need for The Thistle and what effect it is intended to have. This has been unhelpful to public understanding of the facility and may result in unrealistic expectations …
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Government Response Summary
The government deflected by reiterating its commitment to an evidence-based drug policy and highlighting existing successful programs, rather than addressing the clarity of The Thistle facility's rationale and objectives as recommended.
Scotland Office
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