On the 26th January 2009 Cannabis was reclassified from a Class C drug to a class B drug.
Please read our questions and answers below for what this means and how this may affect you.
Question
Why has cannabis been reclassified from a Class C to a Class B drug?
Answer
The government is very concerned over the stronger version of cannabis – skunk, being more widely available. Skunk now accounts for 81% of cannabis available on the streets.
The government also has concerns that more young people are ‘binge smoking’ this stronger form of cannabis.
This stronger form of cannabis can cause additional health problems for a young person.
Question
What this means if caught by the police in possession of cannabis?
Answer
A young person found will cannabis WILL be arrested and taken to a police station.
The young person (depending on circumstances) will either be:
A young person’s parents / carers WILL be informed and they will be asked to attend the police station.
Question
What does changing from a Class C to a Class B drug actually mean?
Answer
See table below for the changes taking effect on 26 January 2009.
|
Class C
B4 January 26 2009
|
Class B
After January 26th 2009
|
|
Possession of a class C drug
Maximum sentence of 2 years
|
Possession of a class B drug
Maximum sentence of 5 years
|
|
Supply and dealing in a class C drug
(includes to friends)
Maximum sentence 5 years
|
Supply and dealing in a class B drug (includes to friends)
Maximum sentence 14 years
|
Question
Where do I go for help and advice or more information?
Answer
Free and confidential help and advice is available by from the KCA Young Persons Services in Kent
East Kent – 01227 456744
West Kent – 01634 338640
For 24 hour help and advice and for more information talk to frank at www.talktofrank.co.uk or phone free on 0800 776600 or click on the link below:
http://www.talktofrank.com/article.aspx?id=2808
