January 26
New cannabis laws create "dual justice system"
(Image © PA)
What’s happening?
The reclassification of cannabis from Class C to Class B
comes into effect today amid claims the new laws send out “mixed messages”. The government introduced tougher penalties because of concerns that strong strains of the drug, such as skunk, can cause mental health problems. Under the new ‘three strikes’ system, a warning will be followed by an £80 spot fine. Only after a third offence will people face arrest and up to five years in prison.
What are people saying?
Legal experts have warned the new penalty system is fundamentally unfair – and could even cause a surge in cannabis use. “It’s a dual justice system,” John Fassenfelt, deputy chair of the Magistrates’ Association, told
the BBC. “If you smoke or take another Class B drug you’ll be brought to court, if you take cannabis you’ll be given a fine. Where’s the justice in that?”
Why should we give a damn?
The government reversed David Blunkett’s decision to downgrade cannabis because of “real public concern about the potential mental health effects of cannabis use,” despite
expert advice that it should remain Class C. Although mental health charities
welcomed the move, others claim it will do little to deter users. Danny Kushlick, of the
drugs policy think tank Transform, said: “Nobody is going to be put off smoking cannabis by the decision to reclassify it. It’s a decision that has been taken for political reasons.”
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