Hard drug use and heavy drinking have been highlighted as key problems for Britain in a study by the Government’s Strategy Unit.

The report also gives warning of changing trends in gun crime, including the use of firearms to “win respect”, particularly in urban areas.

The study suggests that the criminal justice system would be unable to cope with law and order problems unless it undergoes sweeping reforms. It says that changes over the past ten years have not led to higher public satisfaction with the overall system.

“Class A drug use, most relevant to crime outcomes, remains persistent, and although few young people are drinking, those who drink are drinking more and starting earlier,” the report says.

It says that gun crime posed a significant challenge, although recorded offences involving firearms fell by 13 per cent in 2006-07. “The average age of those involved in gun/gang activity appears to be falling, and the propensity to use firearms is higher at a younger age.”

The report adds: “Further fundamental reform will be crucial to delivering the step-change in performance required to respond to current and emerging future challenges.”

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