Drugs and the law
The main piece of drugs legislation in the UK is the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
The Act divides "controlled substances" (drugs) into three classes - A, B and C. The Classes broadly reflect the risks and harms caused by the misuse of the particular drug in question - Class A drugs are considered the most harmful.
The Act also gives guideline penalties for offences involving drugs in classes A, B and C. Maximum sentences differ according to the nature of the offence, with sentences being less for possession than for producing or supplying, or for allowing premises you occupy or manage to be used for producing or supplying drugs.
Bear in mind that even giving drugs to a friend is seen as supplying in the eyes of the law, even if no money changes hands.
| Drugs | Possession (maximum penalty) | Supply or intent to supply (maximum penalty) |
|---|---|---|
| Class A cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin, LSD, magic mushrooms, speed (if prepared for injection) |
7 years prison or a fine, or both | Life imprisonment or a fine, or both |
| Class B amphetamines, barbiturates |
5 years prison or a fine, or both | 14 years prison or a fine, or both |
| Class C cannabis, anabolic steroids, GHB, tranquillisers such as Valium, Temazepam |
2 years prison or a fine, or both | 14 years prison or a fine, or both |
Bear in mind that the penalty for possession and supply of drugs in other countries can be very severe, and prison conditions often very harsh.
In some situations, being caught with drugs abroad can mean:
- death penalty - in several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, and Singapore
- life imprisonment - in some countries, including Cyprus and Greece
- up to 20 years imprisonment - in several countries, including Tunisia, Turkey.
See the drugs abroad section for more information.
Contacts
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