About 1,000 users will be questioned

Until now, drugs research in Scotland has primarily focused on the causes of drugs misuse and how it impinges on society as a whole, particularly through crime.

The study will include research into the attitudes of young people towards drug abuse.

Sir Lachlan Maclean, of the Robertson Trust, said: "The trustees of the Robertson Trust have found it very difficult to discover which of the many initiatives being undertaken in Scotland to both prevent and treat drug misuse are effective.

"The objective of the research is to identify successful initiatives so that our funding is targeted at those organisations that are achieving results."

Professor Neil McKeganey, of Glasgow University's Centre for Drug Misuse, said it is important to understand why many youngsters choose not to become users.

'Vital information'

It is then hoped to build on their experiences and help others to follow their example.

He said: "We need to understand how these young people resist drug misuse and to encourage others to follow their example.

"The funding also allows us to look across Europe for vital information on good practice in drug prevention initiatives."

The Scottish Executive said it will use Professor McKeganey's research to develop a wide range of anti-drugs strategies.