Criminal Defence Solicitor Chloe Hartnell gives evidence to Home Affairs Select Committee
The Home Affairs Select Committee held its first formal session yesterday, to examine UK’s legislative framework on drugs and UK drug policy. Dame Diana Johnson chaired the committee. The witnesses included Niamh Eastwood, Executive Director of Release, academics, Rudi Fortson QC, Barrister at 25 Bedford Row and Chloe Hartnell. Chloe was invited to give her views on the current criminal justice system.
Chloe was asked to considered whether the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 is fit for purpose: “In my view, the criminal justice system is not best placed to deal with drug addiction. The criminalisation of people for minor drug offences impacts hugely on peoples’ ability to travel and work and disproportionately affected ethnic minorities. There is an ongoing lack of resources for the victims of trafficking to help them escape their position.”
Chloe Hartnell is a Partner at Hodge Jones & Allen with many years’ experience in dealing with all types of criminal law. Chloe specialises in drug offences and serious violence.
The full session and transcript is available here.
