Reclassification of Drugs

Question 1

When was Cannabis orginally classified as a Class B drug?

Answer 1

• In 1971, as it was considered dangerous and seen as leading to other drugs (a gateway drug)

Question 2

What then happened to Cannabis in 2004?

Answer 2

• It was re-classified as a class C drug because it was seen as less dangerous than other class B drugs

Question 3

What decision did the government then make regarding cannabis?

Answer 3

• That it was too dangerous to be C in 2008, as skunk cannabis was becoming popular

Question 4

What are the arguments for Cannabis being a class B drug?

Answer 4

• Because it causes mental health issues, with 1000 people getting psychotic issues from taking it
• It is a class B as 500 people are admitted to hospital for taking it
• Considered a gateway drug

Question 5

What are the arguments for Cannabis being a class C or even legal drug?

Answer 5

• It is less dangerous than other class B drugs
• It should be legalised as it is no worse than alcohol and tobacco
• It grows naturally, like tobaco