Misuse of Drugs Act.

This is the main piece of legislation covering drugs and categorises drugs as class A, Band 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

Possession of a controlled substance unlawfully
Possession of a controlled substance with intent to supply it
Supplying or offering to supply a controlled drug (even where no charge is made for the drug)
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 (if prepared for use) 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

Drug List