Drug addiction debate

On 6 October 2010, The Earl of Sandwich led a short debate on addiction to prescribed drugs.

The crossbench peer asked the government what progress is being made in its review of dependence on, and withdrawal from, benzodiazepines and other tranquillisers.

Benzodiazepines (BZD) are prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia and spasms and can also be used as a premedication for medical or dental procedures.

But Lord Montagu has called for "urgent action" to help people addicted to prescription drugs, such as the creation of a network of clinics to care for those affected.