Mike has welcomed comments from Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett, Sussex Police Divisional Commander, and Martin Barnes, Chief Executive of DrugScope, on the forthcoming ‘Are Drug Deaths Avoidable?’ debate.

Commenting on the debate, Graham Bartlett said: “I am delighted to be invited to the Drugs Deaths Conference on the 30th September. The police have a key role in enforcing the law and preventing harms to people and communities. This is an important event to highlight some of the challenges Brighton & Hove faces in this regard and I welcome the opportunity to be part of it.”

Also commenting on the debate, Martin Barnes said: “DrugScope has been working to minimise stigmatising reporting in media for many years, and welcomes the opportunity to debate the issue with such an esteemed panel.”

Discussing the issue, Mike said: “It’s excellent to hear that Graham and Martin are both looking forward to the debate. This is a great opportunity to openly discuss the myriad of issues that surround drugs in our city and the country at large.”

The event is being held at Hove Town Hall at 10am on Friday 30th September 2011. The day will divided into four different sessions and there will be light refreshments at lunchtime. Members of the public are urged to attend.