SIX out of 10 MSPs believe Scotland is failing in its efforts to curb the impact of illegal drug use .

A poll published today, the first of its kind carried out among politicians north of the Border, reveals that just 35% of MSPs believe policies on illegal drugs are effective.

Just over half – 57% – agree that the topic is so controversial it can be difficult to have an objective debate about the issue.

While most MSPs surveyed – 70% – thought policies should make more use of evidence and research, they were largely not in favour of exploring the possibility of making radical changes to drug policy.

Only about one-quarter – 27% – agreed consideration should be given to decriminalising the possession of small quantities of drugs for personal use, with 51% against this idea.

The survey, carried out by the UK Drug Policy Commission (UKDPC), an independent body that aims to objectively analyse drug policies, was based on the anonymous responses of 55 out of 129 MSPs and was weighted to reflect the political composition of Holyrood.

The poll was carried out before the publication of figures last month that showed drug-related deaths have reached a record level in Scotland.

Last year there were 584 north of the Border, the highest ever recorded and up 20% on the previous year. It is estimated there are more than 50,000 Scots drugs addicts, with the economic and social cost adding up to £2.6 billion per year.