Reclassification of Cannabis – 29th January 2004

On the 29th of January, the Government reclassified cannabis from a Class B drug to a Class C drug.

This simply means that the Government have acknowledged that cannabis is not as harmful as other Class B drugs (like Speed) but it will still be illegal to possess, supply or grow it.

The maximum prison sentence for possession has changed from 5 years to 2 years, fines and other non-custodial sentences, like community service will still happen.

However, supplying cannabis (or any other Class C drug) can result in a prison sentence of up to 14 years. Supply includes: buying for your friends, passing a joint around friends and so on.

What happens if you get caught with cannabis?

For a first offence of possession, young people (under 18) will be arrested, taken to a police station and given a formal warning or reprimand. Any further offences will lead to a final warning or a charge, after that the ‘young offender’ will be made to go to the Youth Engagement Service where an assessment of their use will be carried out and treatment and support can be arranged.

Cannabis Is Still Illegal & Is Still Harmful

If you would like more advice talk to FRANK www.talktofrank.com