Sir Bernard Hogan–Howe wants workers to be tested for drug use

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Speaking to MPs on cannabis and children on Monday, the Metropolitan Police commissioner said those who failed should lose their jobs but not necessarily be turned over to the police.

Sir Bernard Hogan–Howe wants testing for all professionals but in particular teachers, intensive–care nurses and transport staff.

It seems to me we have got to plant in people's minds something to affect the demand as well as supply

Met chief Staff should have the choice to change their lives or face the consequences.

He said: "It seems to me we have got to plant in people's minds something to affect the demand as well as supply.

"You can think of many occupations where if you were working with a colleague you would want to be sure in fact that they were drug free." As Merseyside chief, he was well–known for his zero tolerance to drugs.

The suggestion is likely to provoke the ire of the trade unions but Mary Brett, of charity Cannabis Skunk Sense, welcomed the hardline approach.

She said: "It is refreshing to hear a senior police officer who is deeply aware of the dangers of today's cannabis. It is also reassuring to hear one who is unafraid of enforcing the law and taking on drug dealers."

In America, employees are often randomly drug tested.