The debate around cannabis decriminalisation in the UK has been reignited following the release of the independent London Drugs Commission’s report on UK drug policy. The report, which evaluates the effectiveness of current laws on substances such as cannabis, has sparked significant discussions among policymakers, law enforcement, and public health officials alike.
Central to the debate is the commission’s recommendation to decriminalise the possession of small amounts of cannabis. While this idea may appear progressive to some, many experts, including the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ (APCC) joint leads on Addictions and Substance Misuse, PCCs Joy Allen and David Sidwick, remain firmly opposed. Here’s why.
Cannabis Causes Harm to Users and Communities
To understand the arguments against decriminalisation, it’s crucial to first acknowledge the harmful effects of cannabis. The London Drugs Commission itself recognises cannabis as a harmful and addictive substance. Statistics published in recent studies show that one in ten users develop a dependency, with cannabis being the leading drug for which young people in the UK seek addiction treatment, accounting for 87% of cases.
Additionally, extensive research links cannabis consumption to serious mental health problems. Conditions such as psychosis and schizophrenia are particularly prevalent among frequent users, especially in young men. To compound these issues, legalising or decriminalising drugs like cannabis sends an implicit message that some drug use is benign, contradicting evidence to the contrary.
Lessons from New York’s Experience with Cannabis Legalisation
Supporters of cannabis decriminalisation in the UK often argue that changing the law would reduce illegal markets and improve public safety. However, evidence from jurisdictions that have liberalised their drug laws paints a starkly different picture.
New York City legalised personal cannabis use in March 2021, but the results have been anything but promising. Reports reveal widespread confusion among citizens and law enforcement over what is legally permissible. Meanwhile, the city’s illicit market has not disappeared; in fact, many users still turn to illegal dealers due to competitive pricing and stronger product offerings. The expected economic benefits have failed to materialise, and long-term harm, including increasing rates of drug-related deaths, continues to rise.
Walking the streets of New York today, drug deals occur openly, and police intervention is rare unless transactions occur directly in their presence. Similar outcomes could emerge in London if cannabis decriminalisation is implemented, posing significant risks for public health and safety.
The Risks of Cannabis Decriminalisation in the UK
Decriminalising cannabis in the UK carries numerous risks. First and foremost, it is likely to increase usage rates by normalising the substance. Higher consumption inevitably leads to greater health risks and places additional strain on public health services.
Furthermore, decriminalisation will allow criminal supply chains to thrive. Rather than being eradicated, illegal markets will persist, bringing with them violence, anti-social behaviour, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including children. This approach would also leave law enforcement grappling with complexities, such as defining “small amounts” or distinguishing between natural cannabis and synthetic varieties.
Public opinion among UK police reflects these concerns. According to polling by the Centre for Social Justice, two-thirds of officers believe cannabis is effectively decriminalised already, with many arguing that policing the possession of the drug should instead focus on education and support.
The Importance of a Balanced Drug Policy
Rather than decriminalising cannabis, policymakers should be exploring more robust approaches to tackling illegal drugs within the UK. The APCC has long argued for a balanced, evidence-based approach grounded in three key pillars:
Enforcement: Maintain strong deterrents against possession and distribution.
Prevention: Educate people, particularly young individuals, on the harmful effects of cannabis.
Treatment: Increase access to support programmes that can guide users onto a path of rehabilitation and recovery.
This approach has formed the foundation of government policy for years, ensuring a balance between public safety, personal accountability, and effective harm reduction strategies. The focus should remain on referring users to treatment and education programmes rather than resorting to a narrowly punitive model.
Why the UK Shouldn’t Follow New York’s Path
The London Drugs Commission’s push for cannabis decriminalisation risks taking London down the same perilous path as New York. Instead of following this example, the UK should strengthen its existing efforts to combat illegal drug use, maintain law and order, and protect public health.
Our communities deserve safe streets, free from violence and harm inflicted by drug-related crime. Decriminalising cannabis would undermine these priorities, creating confusion and exacerbating challenges already faced by law enforcement and healthcare providers.
The bottom line is clear. The UK should not cave to calls for liberalising cannabis laws, but rather focus on robust, effective solutions to tackle its illegal use.
Source: dbrecoveryresources
