New generation psychoactive drugs are to be banned following the Queen’s speech marking the opening of Parliament.

Shirley Cramer CBE Chief Executive RSPH, said: “Legal highs pose a growing threat to public health. I am delighted that the UK will be following Ireland where a ban has resulted in a reduction in people using drug treatment services as a result of these dangerous products. It is now imperative that all the right stakeholders, including trading standards, the police, prison service and public health practitioners, are involved from day one working together to enforce the ban. 

"Addressing potential displacement of sales to the internet is the next step, which needs to be addressed as part of a more general strategy to combat the sale of unsafe products, for instance diet pills.”

Other points in the speech included:

• Increased budget to implement the 5 year forward view
• Integrating health and social care
• A focus on the 7 day NHS
• Increased access to GPs and mental health services.

The speech also confirmed measures to support devolution of cities and the creation of northern powerhouses which could could have the potential to support development of healthier communities.

There is a need for support and governance across the country, which has been offered by the LGA, and we urge the government to follow their approach which extends devolution across local authorities in addition to just cities.