10/01/2008 00:00:00
UK: Cannabis set to be regraded amid new health-risk fears
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Cannabis set to be regraded amid new health-risk fears
CANNABIS is set to be regraded to a class B drug – with more severe
penalties for users – in the wake of fresh health concerns.
Studies have showed a high risk of mental illness in users, and Jacqui
Smith, the Home Secretary, is said to be determined to reverse the
decision in 2004, under Tony Blair, to downgrade the drug to class C.
Such a move would be in line with Gordon Brown's more conservative moral
code over issues such as alcohol and gambling.
A separate study from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs is due
to report by spring on whether cannabis should be reclassified.
The group, which dismissed previous attempts to reclassify cannabis, has
now also been told to take public attitudes into account as well as
medical evidence.
If cannabis is reclassified as a class B drug, the penalty for
possession is up to five years in prison and an unlimited fine.
The spread of super-strength cannabis such as "skunk", which is grown
hydroponically, is also a cause of concern for the government.
Yesterday, Downing Street did not reject reports that cannabis would be
regraded. The Prime Minister's spokesman said the government would issue
a response when the advisory council published its report.
http://news.scotsman.com/health/Cannabis-set-to-be-regraded.3657629.jp
Source:
http://www.ukcia.org/news/shownewsarticle.php?articleid=13131
Author:
The Scotsman via UKCIA
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