Adults only (18+)

Government Position on Legalisation

As of mid‑2025, the UK government has stated clearly that it has no intention of legalising recreational cannabis. Official responses confirm that cannabis remains a Class B drug under existing law and there are no legislative proposals to change that status. Recent parliamentary questions received formal answers stating that no plans exist to reclassify the drug or introduce legal markets.

Political Debate and Opposition

While London’s mayor has called for decriminalising possession of small amounts, those suggestions have been firmly rejected by senior government ministers. The government emphasises concerns about mental health risks, antisocial behaviour and links to serious crime, stressing that reforms would be inconsistent with its broader law and order agenda.

Parliamentary and Public Attitudes

Opinion surveys show that a growing number of MPs support reform, yet a majority remain opposed. In recent polling, only around one quarter of MPs backed legalisation, with many more favouring decriminalisation or strict maintenance of current laws. Public support is higher over half of UK adults say they would support regulated recreational cannabis but this has not translated into political action at national level.

Decriminalisation Versus Legalisation

Some commissioners and advisory reports have recommended that possession of small quantities be reclassified from criminal to civil offence, pointing to potential benefits for police efficiency and racial equity. However, the government has rejected these recommendations and maintains that possession continues to fall under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Economic and Health Arguments

Advocates argue that legalising cannabis could generate significant tax revenue and reduce criminal justice costs. Some estimates suggest billions in potential economic benefit. Yet lawmakers point to the complexity of establishing a regulated retail market, concerns over youth access, and potential public health consequences as barriers to legalisation.

What the Future Might Hold

Despite increasing public discourse and reports challenging the status quo, the UK government continues to reaffirm that legalisation is not on the agenda. Unless there is a major shift in political leadership or public opinion leading to legislative change, recreational cannabis is likely to remain illegal in the near future. Decriminalisation remains the most probable reform path, but even that remains politically sensitive.

Summary

The UK currently classifies cannabis as a Class B substance and there are no government plans to legalise recreational use. While some local policy-makers and public reports advocate reform, political leadership continues to resist change. Public opinion is increasingly supportive, but parliamentary and ministerial consensus has not shifted. As of mid‑2025, legalisation remains unlikely, with only the possibility of limited decriminalisation in focus.