Cannabis is reclassified will it have any effect

Seems the government has finally upgraded Cannabis to a Class B drug. Most people will consider it is a sensible move considering the adverse long-term impact on mental health which the super strength stuff is having on some of our youths.

Reports in the media suggest that teenagers as young as 14 years are starting to smoke cannabis. So freely available, smoking it has become a kind of badge of honour to be part of the in crowd.

BBC today: Cannabis law change 'illogical'- Cannabis is reclassified as a Class B drug but magistrates say fines for possessing small amounts undermine the law.

There are moans from magistrates that planned fines for possessing small amounts undermined the more serious classification.

They said it sent the signal cannabis is not as bad as other Class B drugs.
Plans to introduce a "three strikes" system for cannabis possession start with a warning, then an £80 spot fine for a second offence.
Only when a third offence is committed, will the person be liable to arrest and prosecution.

For younger people it is a sensible approach. One could imagine the scenario of a 14 year old being locked up if caught smoking it. Not only would it scare the hell out of any kid but they would have a conviction record at such a young age. However I can understand their beef when it comes to adults. One thing I can envisage the police will receive many calls from members of the public about individuals who regularly smoke the stuff, who up to now have had to put up with the unpleasant odour and aggressive behaviour from these individuals .