Professor David Wood has been appointed the new chair of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD), the Crime and Policing minister, Sarah Jones has announced.
Wood has been a member of the ACMD since August 2020, and will be taking over as chair from Professor Owen Bowden-Jones on 1 January.
The ACMD assess substances that are being misused or could potentially cause significant health and social harms, as well as conducting in-depth inquiries into aspects of drug use.
Wood is a clinical toxicology professor and consultant physician who treats patients admitted after drug or medication overdoses.
He has been associated with various international bodies such as the European Union Drugs Agency, World Health Organisation, and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
“As chair, it is essential that I ensure that the ACMD continues to provide the government with high-quality, evidence-based reviews to enable them to take the appropriate decisions in tackling the significant problems associated with the use of drugs and the ongoing challenges posed by psychoactive substances,” commented Professor David Wood regarding his new role.
“He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge that will be invaluable in the council’s vital work providing evidence-based advice to tackle and prevent harms caused by the misuse of drugs,” said Crime and Policing minister, Sarah Jones about Professor Wood as she welcomed him.
“I also thank Professor Owen Bowden-Jones for his dedication over the last 9 years leading the council,” she added.
