Reclassification of synthetic cannabinoids

Summary

A debate on the reclassification of synthetic cannabinoids has been tabled for 9.30 on 6 November 2018 in Westminster Hall. The subject of the debate was decided by the Backbench Business Committee, and the debate will be led by Ben Bradley MP.

Synthetic cannabinoids are a type of new psychoactive substance that have been developed to have similar effects to the psychoactive substances within cannabis. These substances are sold under a number of street names, common ones include Spice and Mamba.

There has been increasing concern about the impact of these substances on the physical and mental health of users, which include some of the most vulnerable groups such as young people, prisoners and the homeless, and wider impacts on communities.

Some synthetic cannabinoids are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the main piece of legislation used to control illicit drugs in the UK. The Act makes it illegal for people to possess, supply, produce, or import/export controlled drugs.

There have been calls for these substances to rescheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 from class B to class A substances.

This debate pack provides an overview on synthetic cannabinoids. It includes information on the effects of these substances, their use, their control under the law, and calls for their reclassification.