Public confidence in all politicians is falling. Parliament wields democratic power and has a duty of care to wield this power responsibly. The ramifications of the decisions of Parliament can affect everyone in the United Kingdom. 

The government’s current recognition of the harm that can result from recreational drugs use and alcohol consumption, even in the absence of addiction, is welcome.

However, the effects of recreational drug use in Parliament has not been investigated. Until Sir Lindsay Hoyle’s recent statements from the Speakers Chair, it had not even been acknowledged.

The time has come to introduce mandatory drug and alcohol testing for members of Parliament and parliamentary staff.

As a retired medical practitioner I can attest to the changing attitudes to alcohol over my career. There is now widespread acknowledgment of the residual affects of alcohol at any level on both physical and mental performance - including the next day “hangover”.  No reasonable medical practitioner would  indulge in alcohol before or during a working session. 

Substance misuse , either alcohol or drug is correctly not tolerated by our professional regulator in any circumstance. This standard should be applied to our members of Parliament. 

Learning from the mistakes of the General Medical Council procedures, anyone found in Parliament under the influence of alcohol or drugs should be subject to full anonymity of their medical history. They should not be disclosed publicly but they may require suspension and rehabilitation.

Measures should be supportive and include detoxification and/or formal supervision of their ongoing ability to discharge the expected duties of their post.

Regrettably, in some circumstances dismissal may be required for the safety of the public.

We -the citizens - require our government to be clear headed ,diligent and performing to the best of their personal abilities.

Alcohol and substance misuse are antithetical to this requirement.