Some issues ago we warned you about Government plans to drug test all suspects in police stations. Well a 2 year pilot for this effort has now begun in Hackney, Nottingham and Satffordshire. All offenders in these areas, including suspects, will be liable for testing. And you can be held in custody until the results come through, which might be 72 hours or more. Anyone refusing 'without good cause' (what could that mean?) will face a charge that carries up to three months or a fine of up to £2500. And, if you're applying for bail, the courts will have to take into account positive tests when deciding whether to grant bail or not. A positive will also be taken into account when the bench decides whether to drug test you while you're actually on bail. This will be linked to the pilot for the new Drug Abstinence/Drug Requirement Orders (see elsewhere in this issue). We hope they're planning more nicks, they'll certainly need them.