Pubdate: Mon,  2 Dec 2002
Source: Huddersfield Daily Examiner, The (UK)
Copyright: Trinity Mirror Plc 2002
Contact:  http://ichuddersfield.icnetwork.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2278

BLUNKETT CRITICISED OVER CANNABIS POSSESSION LAW

David Blunkett has been accused of sending out mixed signals over the law 
on cannabis after it emerged that despite the drug's downgrading, anyone in 
possession could still face arrest.

Under the reclassification of cannabis from Class B to C, announced by the 
Home Secretary last year, the drug will remain illegal but anyone caught 
with small amounts is unlikely to face serious consequences.

At the time Mr Blunkett said the move would allow greater focus on Class A 
drugs such as heroin and cocaine but under the new Criminal Justice Bill, 
individuals caught with Class C drugs could be arrested in certain 
circumstances.

Home Office notes explaining the provisions of the Bill read: "This change 
in the law would mean that police would retain their power of arrest for 
possession of cannabis after the proposed reclassification of the drug from 
Class B to Class C."

The Criminal Justice Bill to be debated by MPs in the Commons next week 
also proposes that the maximum penalty for trafficking a Class C drug will 
rise from five years' imprisonment to 14 years'.

The Liberal Democrats say ministers are "in danger of creating a muddle" 
over drugs law and say they will challenge the measure during its passage 
through Parliament.

Roger Howard, chief executive for the drugs charity DrugScope, said: "This 
about-face makes a mockery of reclassification.

"Instead of focusing on Class A drugs, saving police time and producing a 
more logical drugs policy, the small print of this Bill means that the law 
will be more severe and more confused than ever."

A Home Office spokeswoman said the Association of Chief Police Officers 
will be bringing out a guide on the new laws, adding: "It is critical that 
the police retain the power of arrest to deal with cannabis possession 
linked to aggravated behaviour that threatens public disorder.

"In the majority of cases, however, officers will issue a warning and seize 
the drugs."
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