Drugs

Question 1

What are the drugs classified under Class C?

Answer 1

• Khat
• GHB - date rape drug
• Diazepam

Class C includes substances that are considered to have a lower potential for abuse compared to those in Classes A and B.

Question 2

List the drugs classified under Class B.

Answer 2

• Cannabis
• Ketamine
• Synthetic Cannabinoids
• Amphetamines

Class B drugs typically have a moderate potential for abuse and dependency.

Question 3

What substances are included in Controlled Drugs Class A?

Answer 3

• Cocaine
• LSD
• Ecstasy
• Magic Mushrooms
• Heroin

Class A drugs are considered to have the highest potential for abuse and harm.

Question 4

What does unlawful possession of a controlled drug mean under s.5(2) MDA 1971?

Answer 4

It is an offence for any person to unlawfully have a controlled drug in their possession.

Possession can include having the drug on one’s person or in personal belongings.

Question 5

What must be proven to establish possession of a controlled drug?

Answer 5

• The accused had the substance in their possession
• The offender knew the substance was in their possession
• The substance was a controlled drug

All three elements must be satisfied to prove possession.

Question 6

What are the defenses for possession of a controlled drug under Section 5(2) MDA 1971?

Answer 6

• When a person possesses them to deliver them into custody of a person lawfully entitled
• When a person possesses them to destroy them

These defenses provide legal justification for possession in specific circumstances.

Question 7

What are the penalties for possession of a Class A controlled drug?

Answer 7

• Indictment: 7 years imprisonment
• Summary: 51 weeks

The severity of the penalty depends on the type of trial (indictment or summary).

Question 8

What are the penalties for possession of a Class B controlled drug?

Answer 8

• Indictment: 5 years imprisonment
• Summary discharge: 26 weeks

Summary discharge may lead to a less severe outcome, such as a community order.

Question 9

What are the penalties for possession of a Class C controlled drug?

Answer 9

• Indictment: 2 years imprisonment
• Summary discharge: community order

Community orders may involve supervision or treatment requirements.

Question 10

What constitutes supplying a controlled drug under Section 4(3) MDA 1971?

Answer 10

• Unlawfully supply
• Offer to supply
• Be concerned in the supply
• Be concerned in the making of an offer to supply a controlled drug to another

Supplying can involve direct transfer or facilitating the transfer of drugs.

Question 11

True or False: Giving someone a subscription drug constitutes supplying a controlled drug.

Answer 11

True

This includes any act of giving or offering controlled substances to another individual.