The Lord Advocate is head of the system of prosecution of crime and is responsible for the investigation of deaths in Scotland.
The primary role of the taskforce is to co-ordinate and drive action to improve the health outcomes for people who use drugs, reducing the risk of harm and death.
The Lord Advocate said:
“The justice, health and social care systems all contribute to reducing harm arising from illegal drug use.
“Scotland’s public prosecutors, acting independently in the public interest, deploy a range of measures in response to those who cause harm to themselves and others through the use of drugs.
“I welcome the formation of the Drug Death Taskforce and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service will join the taskforce to support its work."