Pubdate: Thu, 10 Jan 2008
Source: Scotsman (UK)
Copyright: 2008 The Scotsman Publications Ltd
Contact: http://members.scotsman.com/contact.cfm
Website: http://www.scotsman.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/406
Author: Gerri Peev
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?207 (Cannabis - United Kingdom)

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.
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake