I was highly impressed with the Times Group's in-depth coverage on drugs last week.

Dealing with drug misuse is particularly important if the Government, police, Mayor of London and council are going to further bring down the levels of crime in Barnet. The link between crime and drug misuse is proven, so tackling the causes of drug misuse and offering effective treatments will assist with reducing the economic impetus that drives many criminals.

The Government does need to do more on offering treatments for drug misusers, but I believe this to be an issue around which all political parties could unite. Ken Livingstone's additional police on London's streets, and Barnet Council's neighbourhood wardens can only do so much.

Drug misuse does not excuse those who commit crime, nor lessen the need for conviction and punishment, but if crime can be prevented in the first place, or the drugs/crime cycle broken by treatments being available across the UK, then that should be welcomed.

Councillor Phil Yeoman

Labour group leader

April 28, 2003 13:30