Uk Cannabis Laws, What are the Consequences?

Cannabis is illegal for recreational use and is classified as a Class B drug. It was downgraded to a Class C drug with less severe penalties in 2004. Still, in 2009 it was moved back to Class B. Medicinal use of cannabis, as prescribed by a doctor, was legalised in November 2018.

Cannabis is a widely used illegal drug in the UK. Cannabis has been a restricted drug in the United Kingdom since 1928. It was limited in its recreational use until the 1960s, when increasing popularity led to a stricter 1971 classification. In contrast, other strains lower in THC, known as hemp, have been used in the industrial industry for over a thousand years for fibres, oil and other materials.

Even though cannabis is still illegal in the UK, with limited availability for medical use, the United Kingdom, believe it or not, is the world's largest exporter of legal cannabis.

When it comes to drug laws in the UK, you may be fined or get a custodial punishment if you take drugs, carry drugs, make drugs, sell, deal, or share drugs.

The harshness of the penalty depends on the type of drug involved, the amount you have, and whether you are producing or dealing it. The highest penalties for drug possession, supply (selling, dealing or sharing), and production will depend on what type or 'class' the drug is.

Cannabis is currently a Class B. This means that the following penalties are possible depending on the charge.

Possession-Up to 5 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both

Supply- Up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Police may also issue a warning or an on-the-spot fine of £90 if you're found with cannabis.

Possession

You may be charged with possession if caught with drugs, whether or not they are yours. If you're under 18, the police have a duty to tell your parent, guardian or carer that you've been caught with drugs.

Your penalty will depend on the following: the class rating and amount of drug, where the drugs were found, your personal history (previous crimes, including any prior drug offences), and any other mitigating or aggravating factors.

Dealing or supplying drugs

The penalty is likely more severe if you are found to be supplying drugs (dealing, selling or sharing). The police will likely charge you if they suspect you are supplying drugs to others. The amount of drugs discovered and whether you already have a criminal record will affect your penalty.

So now you can be clear on what to expect in the Uk when it comes to the laws surrounding cannabis. Hopefully, one day, things will change, and the UK will come more in line with the more progressive countries that are going through not only medicinal cannabis reform but recreational reform too.