160
Widespread illicit substance availability normalises drug use and addiction within prisons.
Conclusion
The widespread and increasing availability of illicit substances has fostered a culture of acceptance that normalises drug use in prisons. This makes the presence of drugs inescapable for many prisoners. The situation is made worse by two key factors: the high number of people entering prison with an existing addiction, and the worrying trend of prisoners who had no prior issues developing a drug habit while in prison. (Conclusion, Paragraph 15)
Government Response
A response document is linked to this report, dated 9 January 2026. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document.
Source
Committee
Justice Committee
Inquiry
Tackling drugs in prisons
Report
6th Report - Tackling the drugs crisis in our prisons
31 Oct 2025
HC 557
Addressee Bodies
Ministry of Justice
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.9 yr
Report published
31 Oct 2025