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Drugs and UK Law

The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 brought in a classification system which divided illegal drugs into three categories (A, B, C) depending on how dangerous they were thought to be. Under this system, the penalties imposed depend on the offence and class of drug. Class A drugs like heroin would incur a harsher sentence than a class C drug such as cannabis.

Class A drugs include heroin, cocaine, crack, crystal meth, ecstasy, LSD, and most recently magic mushrooms. Methadone, although legal under prescription, is still a class A drug and therefore illegal to posses or sell. As are class B drugs that have been prepared for injection. Possession can result in up to seven years in prison and/or a fine, and life imprisonment for possession with intent to supply.

The classification B covers drugs like amphetamines (speed), codeine and barbiturates and possession of any can get you up to five years in prison and/or a fine, while supplying to someone carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison.

Cannabis, ketamine, and some tranquillisers like temazepam are all Class C drugs, as is the supply of anabolic steroids. Cannabis was originally a class B drug and was only downgraded to class C in 2004. You can expect a maximum of two years in prison and/or a fine for possession of a class C drug, and up to five years in prison for intent to supply.

What many do not realise is that prescription drugs while legal to possess, are controlled by the Medicines Act 1968 and therefore supply is still an offence. It is perhaps surprising then that there are still some drugs not covered by the Misuse of Drugs Act. Alcohol, for example, despite the well documented social problems associated with drinking, is legal to buy and drink alcohol if over 18 years of age. Solvents are not illegal to use, yet a shopkeeper commits a criminal offence by selling a solvent to an under-18 who will use it for sniffing. Finally, it is illegal to buy cigarettes if under 18 years of age, but not illegal to smoke them.