Written question asked by Teresa Gorman (Conservative) on Wednesday, 7 March 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 21 March 2001. It was answered by Marjorie Mowlam (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 March 2001 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Cabinet Office

Question: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, What plans she has to legalise cannabis. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mrs. Gorman: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans she has to legalise cannabis. [153318] Marjorie Mowlam: The Government have a clear and consistent policy towards all illicit drugs based on the evidence of the harm they cause. Cannabis is a controlled drug for scientific reasons. We are still learning about the health risks, including chronic health effects such as the risk of cancer. The Government will keep the evidence under review. As far as cannabis use for medicinal purposes is concerned, the UK is leading the world in research into the possible medical benefits of cannabis derivatives. The Government are supporting a major research project which will be concluded within the next two years. If the current clinical trials into cannabis are successful and lead to the development of an effective cannabis- based medicine which is granted a marketing authorisation by the Medicines Control Agency, the Government have made it clear that they would be willing to amend the misuse of drugs regulations to allow such a medicine to be prescribed by doctors.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 365 c275-6W; 153318
Session: 2000-01
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Cannabis Decriminalisation Medical treatments Medicines Control Agency
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk