Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what steps he is taking to reduce the mortality rate from drug misuse in the North East.

The latest rise in drug misuse deaths – particularly in the North East – is a great concern and highlights the need for further local and national action. We need to ensure the most vulnerable users can access drug treatment and harm reduction services, where they have the best chance of recovery.

Public Health England will continue to support local authorities in delivering effective recovery services for everyone who needs them. They are providing local authorities and commissioners with expert advice, evidence, and management information including outcomes and value for money data. This can help to ensure that the local services are evidence-based, effective and integrated with local health, housing and employment support.