Drug laws and licensing
Misuse of Drugs Act
This is the main piece of legislation covering drugs and categorises drugs as class A, B and C.
These drugs are termed as controlled substances, and Class A drugs are those considered to be the most harmful.
Offences under the Act include
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Possession of a controlled substance unlawfully
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Possession of a controlled substance with intent to supply it
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Supplying or offering to supply a controlled drug (even where no charge is made for the drug)
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Allowing premises you occupy or manage to be used unlawfully for the purpose of producing or supplying controlled drugs
Drug trafficking (supply) 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 on ‘reasonable suspicion’ that they are in possession of a controlled drug.
Classification under the Act
Class A drugs
Include: Ecstasy, LSD, heroin, cocaine, crack, magic mushrooms (whether prepared or fresh), methylamphetamine (crystal meth), other amphetamines if prepared for injection
Penalties for possession: Up to seven years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both
Penalties for dealing: Up to life in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both
Class B drugs
Include: Amphetamines, Methylphenidate (Ritalin), Pholcodine
Penalties for possession: Up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both
Penalties for dealing: Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both
Class C drugs
Include: Cannabis, tranquilisers, some painkillers, GHB (Gamma hydroxybutyrate), ketamine
Penalties for possession: Up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both
Penalties for dealing: Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both
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Some drugs are not yet classified and are regulated through the Medicines Act. More on the Medicines Act
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See the full list of drugs controlled (new window) under misuse of drugs legislation.
