Reform deputy accuses Scottish Government over drug deaths; minister rejects claim

Politics · First reported 9 Nov, 00:01 · Updated 00:19

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Reform UK Scotland deputy leader Thomas Kerr blamed the Scottish Government for drug deaths, including his father’s death in 2016, and described the situation as “genocide.” Alcohol and drugs minister Maree Todd called his allegations untrue and outlined government measures to reduce deaths. The Irish News snippet reports Kerr’s claim about his father but gives no further response or policy detail.

Thomas Kerr said he held the Scottish Government responsible for his father’s death in 2016 and argued that rising drug-death numbers reflected either government failure or deliberate action.
The article reports that drug deaths in Scotland have remained above 1,000 a year for nearly a decade; Kerr said the figures were around 600 in 2016.
Minister Maree Todd rejected Kerr’s allegations and said the government would continue expanding treatment, rehabilitation and naloxone access.

Summary written by Lux AI from 2 articles

Key facts

Kerr’s role: Reform UK Scotland deputy leader and Glasgow MSP.
Father’s death: Kerr said his father died in 2016.
Drug-death figures: The article says Scotland’s annual drug deaths have remained above 1,000 for nearly a decade; Kerr cited about 600 in 2016.
Minister’s response: Maree Todd called the allegations entirely untrue and the language deeply irresponsible.
Government measures cited: Todd listed wider treatment access, residential rehabilitation, naloxone and targeted support.