Scientist In Drug Classification Controversy Talks In Derby
13 January 2012
Professor David Nutt
Around 250 people gathered at the University on January 11 to hear a talk from outspoken scientist Professor David Nutt.
Professor Nutt was the Government's top drugs adviser until he criticised its policy on drug and alcohol classification.
Professor Nutt's talk, titled 'Scientists in the firing line - can we bring reason to government policy on alcohol and other drugs?' drew in a strong crowd, all wanting to hear more about the circumstances around his controversial 'firing' from his position of Chair of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) from 2008- 2009.
The psychiatrist and pharmacologist, who is now Professor of Neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London, did not disappoint, sharing his experiences with the government and the media openly.
He also gave his thoughts and research insights about drugs and drug classification.
You can hear a full podcast from Professor Nutt's talk on www.derby.ac.uk/corporate-relations/podcasts soon.
Professor Nutt has since established the Independent Scientific Committee on Drugs (ISCD). The Committee investigates and reviews the scientific evidence relating to drugs to promote widespread informed public understanding; promoting effective policies and practice in the UK, and internationally.
More information on the Committee's work can be found at www.drugscience.org.uk.
