SIR Sadiq Khan has backed calls to decriminalise possessing small amounts of cannabis.
London’s mayor said a report published today gave “a compelling case”.
The London Drugs Commission says current cannabis laws are “disproportionate” and policing continues to focus on ethnic communities, hurting relations with cops.
The LDC, set up by Mr Khan in 2022, is calling for small quantities of natural cannabis to be decriminalised.
Importing, manufacturing or distributing the drug would still be illegal.
Labour’s Mr Khan said: “The report makes a compelling case for the decriminalisation of small quantities of natural cannabis which the Government should consider.”
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: “Cannabis is illegal for a reason. I oppose these plans.”
Responding to the report, Sir Sadiq said: “I’ve long been clear that we need fresh thinking on how to reduce the substantial harms associated with drug-related crime in our communities.
“The London Drugs Commission report makes a compelling, evidenced-based case for the decriminalisation of possession of small quantities of natural cannabis which the Government should consider.
“It says that the current sentencing for those caught in possession of natural cannabis cannot be justified given its relative harm and people’s experience of the justice system.
“We must recognise that better education, improved healthcare and more effective, equitable policing of cannabis use are long overdue.”
Sadiq Khan has backed calls to decriminalise possessing small amounts of cannabis[/caption]
