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Cannabis Reclassified in the United Kingdom - At last!

The government are just embarking on a pr campaign drawing (excuse the pun), peoples attention that Cannabis will be reclassified from a Class B to a Class C drug from Thursday (January 29) but still remains an illegal substance.

The decision to reclassify cannabis followed the advice of the national Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs, a body of scientific and medical experts who advised that cannabis is harmful, but less harmful than other Class B drugs, such as amphetamines - and a move completely back by the Police Federation as well.

After reclassification, most offences of cannabis possession by adults will result in a police warning and confiscation of the drug. There will be a presumption against arrest, except where public order is at risk or where children are vulnerable. The police will also ensure that those who repeatedly flout the law are arrested and dealt with. Young people under 18 who are found in possession of cannabis will receive a formal reprimand or warning at a police station.

Marcus Gomm, co-ordinator for East Sussex Drug and Alcohol Action Team said: "The change in classification will enable the police to target Class A drugs - such as heroin and crack/cocaine - which cause the most harm to users, their families and communities. Cannabis is a harmful drug and will remain illegal."

Councillor Bob Tidy, Lead East Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: "This is a very serious issue and one which must be clearly understood by everyone. To help with this, the Action Team will be distributing leaflets throughout East Sussex to inform the community about reclassification. They will also be working closely with young people to underline the fact that cannabis is still illegal and anyone under the age of 18 caught in possession will be taken to a police station. This will enable treatment workers to make contact with young people and make sure they get the help they need." Yada yada...

The Conservative party have clearly pledged to reverse this move if they win the next general election, who's going to vote for them with policies like that? Certainly none of the millions of regulars (and their families) dotted around every corner of the UK. Michael Howard (the new Tory main man I believe) was responsible for bringing in the controversially human right breaking Criminal Justice Act - proving he's still just as close and in tune as ever to the voters way of thinking!