The use of drugs is governed by two main laws: The Misuse of Drugs
Act 1971 and the Medicines Act.
The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 regulates what are termed 'controlled
drugs' and divides drugs into three classes which are:
Class A
These include cannabis oil, cocaine, crack, heroin, Ecstasy, LSD,
methadone, processed magic mushrooms and any Class B drug which
is injected.
Class B
Includes amphetamines, barbiturates and codeine.
Class C
Includes mild amphetamines, anabolic steroids and minor tranquillisers
such as Valium, Cannabis resin or herbal, GHB, Ketamine.
Maximum penalties under the Misuse of Drugs Act are:
|
Drug Classes
|
Possession
|
Supply
|
|
Class A
|
7 years in prison and a fine
|
Life in Prison and a fine
|
|
Class B
|
5 years in prison and unlimited fine
|
14 year in prison and unlimited fine
|
|
Class C
|
2 years in prison and unlimited fine
|
Max 14 years in prison
|
Offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act can include:
- Possession of a controlled drug
- Possession with intent to supply another person
- Production, cultivation or manufacture of controlled drugs
- Supplying another person with a controlled drug
- Offering to supply another person with a controlled drug
- Import or export of controlled drugs
- Allowing premises you occupy or manage to be used for the consumption
of certain controlled drugs
There is a proposed increase to the sentences in under the Misuse
of Drugs Act:
*For Class C drugs - supply or possession with intent to supply
will get up to 14 years in prison*
*Supply can mean passing a joint to a mate*
*Allowing a mate to smoke a joint in your house is also illegal*
|
