DRUG laws will be scrutinised by MPs in Parliament for the first time in more than 40 years today after MP Caroline Lucas secured the debate.

The three-hour Commons debate – which received cross-party backing – is set to take place this morning.

It hopes to urge the Government to assess if drug policies are effective and value for money.

The discussion comes after more than 130,000 people signed a petition calling for the laws to be updated to include recent evidence.

The debate supports a motion calling for an independent review into the success of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 for the first time.

Ms Lucas said: “We all want a drugs policy that works.

“We want policies that reduce drug-related deaths and protect our children.

“Policies that rid our communities of the harms associated with drug misuse and which ensure individuals get the help and support they need.

“But if we’re to have a drugs policy that does all of these things, then it has to be based on evidence.

“This debate is not about being for or against drugs reform.

“It’s about making sure we have the best possible laws based on the best possible evidence. It is the responsibility of every MP to be there to represent their constituents.”

Studies have claimed more than half the population said drug laws should be reviewed and 77% of MPs dismissed current policies as ineffective in tackling the problems caused by illegal drugs.

On Monday, The Argus exclusively spoke to the chairman of the Brighton Cannabis Club – a campaign group calling for the legalisation of the drug and that openly possesses and uses it in public in the city.

Previously Lewes MP Norman Baker has called on the Department of Health to use the drug to treat more medical conditions and has said it should be legalised for medicinal use.