Cannabis

Reclassified from Class C to Class B

On January 26, 2009, cannabis was reclassified up from a Class C to a Class B drug.

The Government decided to reclassify cannabis as a preventative measure rather than risk the potential impact on health in the future. The ‘B' classification takes into account the known risks of cannabis and the potential health risks where conclusive evidence is not yet available. Reclassification also reinforces the message that cannabis is harmful and illegal, backed up by a stronger approach to enforcement.

Adults who are 18 and over

As well as confiscating the drug, the agreed police response will be to:

• Give a cannabis warning if it is the first time the offender has been caught with cannabis.
• Give a Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND) if it is the second time the offender has been caught with cannabis. This is an on-the-spot fine of £80.
• If the fine is paid, there will be no record of criminal conviction. However, PNDs will be logged on the
• Police National Computer and may be disclosed as part of an enhanced criminal records check, if it is thought relevant.
• Arrest offenders if it is the third or more time they have been caught with cannabis. However, the police can arrest people caught with cannabis on any occasion if they think it is necessary.

Young people between 10 and 17

There is also an escalation approach for young people.

However, they will not be given cannabis warnings or PNDs.

As with adults, they can also be arrested even if it is the first time that they have been caught with cannabis. They can also be referred to a Youth Offending Team at any stage.

As well as confiscating the drug, the agreed police response will be to:

• Give a reprimand if it is the first time the young person has been caught with cannabis.
• Give a final warning and refer the young person to a Youth Offending Team if it is the second time they have been caught with cannabis.
• Arrest them if it is the third or more time they have been caught with cannabis.