Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Spiking

13 June 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Richard Graham Con Richmond Park

Crime & Law Enforcement

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Richard Graham raised concerns about spiking in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Mr Graham moved to introduce a Bill to address administering drugs, alcohol, or substances without consent.
  • He noted that spiking cases have been reported nearly 5000 times but the police are not required to collect data on this issue.
  • Mr Graham argued for the creation of a specific offence for spiking due to its current informal status in legislation.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Richard Graham Con Richmond Park

Mr. Graham moved to bring in a Bill aiming to make provision about administering drugs, alcohol or substances without consent and for connected purposes. He highlighted that spiking cases have been reported almost 5,000 times but the police are not formally obliged to collate data on it, suggesting it is likely underreported. He argued for creating a specific offence of spiking due to its informal status in current legislation, urging the Government to react and act given the growing awareness and impact of spiking cases.

Other contributors (1)
  • Richard Graham Con Richmond Park

    Mr. Graham argued that existing laws do not adequately address the issue of spiking, which encompasses various contexts beyond sexual offences or use of noxious substances. He cited data and testimonies from previous debates to underscore the need for a new criminal offence of spiking to improve reporting, prosecution, and public awareness. He also highlighted calls from colleagues, police chiefs, and advocacy groups for legislative action.

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