Critically explaining British policy responses to novel psychoactive substances using the policy constellations framework

Background A growing number of researchers are trying to provide explanations for continuity and change in drug policy different contexts. Such research predominantly falls the pluralist realm public where various actors compete have their proposals accepted.Method Using a critical framework called Policy Constellations (PC), developed by Stevens Zampini, this paper attempts explain reactions British Government Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS) between 2008 – 2016. Qualitative data comes from in-depth interviews with stakeholders (N = 15), including NGO workers, former Home Secretary, drugs ministers, governmental advisors, senior police officer, Deputy Drug Coordinator, Advisory Council Misuse Drugs (ACMD) member.Results Two ‘constellations’ competed NPS setting. The PC illustrates power imbalances these competing stakeholders. Abstinence orientated (the conservative constellation) enjoyed strategic advantages media which allowed them create favourable These were not liberal constellation who struggled access setting influence developments.Conclusion prohibitive nature used counter can be explained domination whose values align constellation.