Quote:
Originally posted by wellard:
Epona that is great news regarding the law, but it still leaves room for "interpretation". One step at a time I guess
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You're right it does. Tbh that was more or less the case before it was reclassified (used to be class B like amphetamines, now is class C like prescription drugs) - as long as you weren't caught dealing, growing, caught numerous times, or with a huge amount on you it would be slap on the wrist and off you go. The police considered it a waste of time to prosecute people for possession for personal use. Growing or dealing was mostly punishable by fines unless you were one of the 'big boys' (or a campaigner such as in the case of a Green Party candidate who was sent down for 6 months for growing a few plants for personal use).
Unfortunately when pot was downgraded the penalties for dealing class Cs were increased, so it's sort of a no win situation. You won't get in trouble for possession of small amounts (pretty much as before) but if you're caught dealing and the police decide to make an example of you the penalties could be tougher!
Oh well, I suppose downgrading is legal recognition of the fact that people shouldn't be persecuted for a harmless personal activity, even if in reality the situation hasn't changed much.
My own view is along the lines of no victim=no crime. But there you go. When I'm queen of the world all drugs will be legal anyway, so just wait a few years....
[ 03-10-2004, 09:24 AM: Message edited by: Epona ]