Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, following research by Release in regard to variation in the provision of, and access to, the potentially lifesaving drug naloxone, what assessment they have made of the adequacy of the response from local authorities; and whether they will take action to implement a nationally coordinated and monitored take-home naloxone programme in England.

Naloxone has a vital role in saving lives and the Government is committed to widening its use in England. Public Health England has reviewed available research including surveys conducted by the Local Government Association and Release, and will use those findings in supporting local authorities to extend their provision of naloxone. The Government has updated advice and guidance on naloxone as part of its commitment to develop a more consistent and joined up approach to commissioning and delivery in England and will continue to monitor provision in all local areas.