MPs want Bristol drug row professor to quit post

The Bristol professor at the centre of a row over ecstasy has been asked to "consider his position" by a group of MPs.

David Nutt, who lectures at Bristol University, sparked fury last week after claiming that taking the class A drug was no more dangerous than riding a horse.

After widespread condemnation, including criticism from Home Secretary Jacqui Smith for the "insensitivity" he had shown to the families of victims of the drug, he apologised. But Labour politicians have still called on the academic to consider his position as chairman of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs.

MP Jim Dobbin, former NHS microbiologist, tabled an Early Day Motion stating that the Commons is "dismayed at the view of Professor David Nutt ... that ecstasy is less dangerous than horse-riding and calling on him to consider his position as chairman of the ACMD."

Professor Nutt was last night unavailable for comment.