Overview

This bill proposes to reschedule cannabis and cannabis resin, effectively legalizing their production, supply, possession, and use for medicinal purposes across the UK. The change would remove cannabis from the list of controlled substances (Schedule 1 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001) and place it onto a schedule where its medicinal use can be regulated.

Description

The core aim of the Legalisation of Cannabis (Medicinal Purposes) Bill is to amend the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. Specifically, it removes cannabis and cannabis resin from Schedule 1, which lists the most dangerous controlled substances, and adds them to Schedule 2. This shift allows for controlled and regulated access to cannabis for medicinal applications. The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and comes into force two months after it's passed. It aims to create a legal framework for the medicinal use of cannabis, paving the way for the production, distribution, and prescription of cannabis-based medicines under strict regulatory control.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't explicitly state the cost implications. However, there will likely be costs associated with establishing and implementing the regulatory framework necessary to oversee the production, distribution, and prescription of medical cannabis. These costs could include setting up licensing systems, conducting inspections, and developing guidelines for medical professionals and patients. Conversely there might be savings from a reduction in prosecutions for cannabis related offences.

Groups Affected

This bill could affect several groups:

• Patients: Potentially improved access to cannabis-based medicines for those with qualifying conditions.
• Healthcare professionals: New responsibilities regarding prescribing and managing cannabis-based medications.
• Cannabis producers and distributors: Opportunity for legal business operations under a regulated framework.
• Law enforcement agencies: Shift in enforcement priorities, focusing on illicit cannabis activities rather than medicinal use.

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