As debate in the press rages over the potential reclassification of cannabis from class C to B, DrugScope thought it might be helpful to bring together some of the latest research and reports.

Educating Reefer: effective health education and warnings on cannabis
This report from Rethink argues the case for educating people about the mental health dangers of cannabis.

Cannabis and young people: “It’s a social thing” (PDF)
This report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) studies how young people obtain cannabis in the UK, both in large towns and rural villages.

The impact of heavy cannabis use on young people’s lives
This research from the JRF investigates the effects of heavy cannabis use on young people.

Young people, cannabis use and anti-social behaviour
This report from Kings College, London, studies the views of young people, professionals and local residents on the effects of cannabis use in the community.

Here is the last Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) investigation from 2005 into cannabis-related harm. This review was carried out when the ACMD were asked to determine whether or not cannabis should be re-reclassified to a Class B drug.
Further consideration of the classification of cannabis under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

DrugScope policy briefing paper on cannabis reclassification from 2005

The ACMD is currently holding a review meeting on the classification of cannabis in response to a request from the Home Office. Martin Barnes, chief executive of DrugScope, is a member of the Advisory Committee.

The drug strategy consultation included a question over the classification of cannabis. DrugScope’s response is here (see question 39a)

Here are some other organisations’ submissions to the ACMD for the current review of cannabis reclassification:

Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) 

Drug Education Forum

Magistrate’s Association 

Royal Society of Arts (RSA)

Transform 

UKDPC