Drugs
Class A, B and C drugs
The different kinds of illegal drugs are divided into three different categories, or classes. These classes (A, B and C) carry different levels of penalty for possession and dealing.
Penalties for possession and dealing
| Possession: | Dealing: | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | Ecstasy, LSD, heroin, cocaine, crack, magic mushrooms, amphetamines (if prepared for injection). | Up to seven years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. | Up to life in prison or an unlimited fine or both. |
| Class B | Amphetamines, Methylphenidate (Ritalin), Pholcodine. | Up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. | Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. |
| Class C | Cannabis, tranquilisers, some painkillers, Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), Ketamine. | Up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. | Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine or both. |
Class A, B and C drugs are termed as controlled substances under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, with Class A being those considered most harmful.
The misuse of drugs act states that it is an offence to:
- Possess a controlled substance unlawfully
- Possess a controlled substance with intent to supply it
- Supply or offering to supply a controlled drug (even where no charge is made for the drug)
- Allow premises you occupy or manage to be used for the purpose of drug taking
Drug trafficking attracts serious punishment, including life imprisonment for Class A offences.
To enforce this law the police have special powers to stop, detain and search people under the 'reasonable suspicion’ that they are in possession of a controlled drug.
