UK Cannabis law change ‘illogical’
Thursday, January 29th, 2009 at 4:51 pm | By: Radical Russ
The reclassification of cannabis as a Class B drug has come into effect in England and Wales amid complaints the new laws are “illogical”.
Plans to introduce a “three strikes” system for cannabis possession start with a warning, then an £80 spot fine for a second offence. Scotland and Northern Ireland have opted out of this penalties arrangement for England and Wales, retaining the former system for class B drugs.
Only when a third offence is committed, will the person be liable to arrest and prosecution.
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith decided to reclassify cannabis despite an Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs’ review – commissioned by Gordon Brown – saying it should remain Class C.
Ms Smith said stronger “skunk” varieties account for 80% of the cannabis seized on the streets, and that the drug is nearly three times stronger than in 1995.
The advisory council’s report, Cannabis: Classification and Public Health, described the drug as a “significant public health issue”.
But it said it should still remain a Class C drug, saying the risks were not as serious as those of Class B substances such as amphetamines and barbiturates.
Britain and America are so much alike when it comes to marijuana policy. Both have commissioned independent reviews of cannabis policy, both have had these reviews recommend decriminalization, both have ignored the scientists and the pollsters and the doctors and the people in continuing to punish people for their responsible use of cannabis.
PENALTIES FOR DRUG DEALING AND POSSESSION
Drug class Type of drug Possession Dealing Class A Ecstasy, LSD, heroin, cocaine, crack, magic mushrooms, amphetamines (if prepared for injection). Up to seven years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. Up to life in prison or an unlimited fine or both. Class B Cannabis, amphetamines, Methylphenidate (Ritalin), Pholcodine. Up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. Class C Tranquilisers, some painkillers, Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), Ketamine. Up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine or both Source: Home Offfice
via BBC NEWS | UK | UK Politics | Cannabis law change ‘illogical’.
