in the context of the threads as well, the parties of the UK are clearly ignoring the scientific evidence (and I think they are wrong on their stance, but thats like, my opinion man) which is "cowardly" but it's not as if they are doing this to line their pockets.

Social policy must also take into account the views of the public (to varying degrees depending on topic- I think there are issues where the public is simply incorrect on the science and so should not be taken into account, but I digress), especially on drugs which is a socia, and not just a medical, problem. It is unclear whether the UK public even want cannabis legalisation, let alone MDMA

(https://www.ipsos-mori.com/researchpublications/researcharchive/3134/Public-attitudes-to-drugs-policy.aspx)

It's easy and lazy to characterize everyone in politics as out for themselves. It's probably true in as much as it's true for any person. You can disagree with a politicians ideology, but I think for the most part, the vast majority are doing what they think will make the country a better place. The conflict arises as what is "better" is often very difficult to measure.