ITN
Cannabis stays a Class C drug
Cannabis stays a Class C drug
Cannabis will remain a Class C drug even though it 'is anything but harmless'. Home Secretary Charles Clarke has ruled out returning cannabis to a Class B drug despite earlier admitting that its downgrade caused confusion about its health risks and legal status. But he told the Commons that 'reclassification has not led to an increase in use'. His decision follows advice from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD). Clarke's predecessor, David Blunkett downgraded cannabis two years ago and since then new reports have underlined its detrimental affect on mental health. Research has since suggested there is an increased risk of cannabis users developing schizophrenia but many charities are against 'fiddling with its legal status', preferring instead that its dangers be highlighted. But Marjory Wallace, of mental health charity Sane, called the decision 'very, very disappointing'. 'Sane has been campaigning over 18 years about the links between cannabis and the developing of mental illness,' she said. programme. We were against the downgrading in the first place.' Association of Chief Police Officers drugs spokesman and Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Andy Hayman, said: 'Acpo fully endorse the ACMD's findings and the resulting decision of the Home Secretary. For further information visit www.rethink.org or call 0845 456 0455.
ITN | January 19, 2006
