In response to recent incidents and reported fatalities across the country relating to the use of mephedrone – a possible substitute for cocaine – I call upon the Government to ban this drug immediately.

The Government has been so far behind other European countries in tackling drugs that drug-takers have already moved on to for their next high.

It is already illegal in Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Israel, but our own Government appears to have no plans to enforce a ban.

The fact this drug is being used as a substitute for cocaine tells me that a ban is absolutely necessary.

The Government needs to act without delay.

Bill Cash MP