UK, Met Police Oppose London Cannabis Proposal

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has supported the London Drugs Commission's recommendation to decriminalise the possession of small amounts of natural cannabis, citing disproportionate harms of current laws and their impact on ethnic communities. The commission, led by Lord Falconer, suggested moving natural cannabis from the Misuse of Drugs Act to the Psychoactive Substances Act, which would decriminalise personal possession while maintaining prohibitions on production and distribution. The report called for expanded public education on cannabis risks and improved addiction support. Strong opposition has come from Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley and the UK government, who argue that drug use is linked to anti-social behaviour and violent crime, and note that current enforcement already uses discretion. Critics also warn that liberalisation could worsen public disorder and health risks, referencing negative outcomes observed in New York. Despite these recommendations, the UK government has reaffirmed it will not alter the legal status of cannabis.