There is no evidence to support if heroin is prescribed with discipline that it causes problems. But that is not the same as saying it should be as available as a packet of cigs?

It is an opiate (diamorphine) and is totally benign, but only when used with supervision. It's natural addictive qualities would be too much of a temptation for most I think, and they would still be faced with the dilemma of spending too much money on that as opposed to food etc.

I would estimate that the majority of registered heroin addicts in the UK do not work at the moment. They therefore have their rent paid by housing benefit, so the decision re rent/heroin isn't one many face.