When we hear calls for retribution against drug using pop stars, we are really just hearing resentment

I think there is a lot of truth in that. In my experience the courts, on the whole, deal with celebrities in the same way as they do other individuals, it just seems as if they don't. A lot of non-celebrities lose their jobs through drug misuse, not only because of convictions but also because they lead chaotic lives and it is difficult for them to hold down a job. Celebrities are not only more likely to keep their jobs but to be applauded at the same time.

In the UK some of the measures put in place to help addicts are badly funded and not well thought out. It is difficult enough, in the first place, for addicts to get to the point where they want help. Once they do get to that point there is not then sufficient help - recovery is a long process.

Drug addicts are victims.

Families and loved ones of drug addicts are victims.

Tough love is one of the hardest things in the world.

The government has failed miserably in this area.