Battle against cannabis 'should focus on dealers not the users'

Police efforts to combat cannabis should be focused on dealers and organised gangs rather than individual users found with the drug, says one of Britain’s most senior police officers.

Humberside chief constable Tim Hollis, who is the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) lead member on drugs, called for a “mature debate around the harms caused by illicit drugs and the role of the police service regarding enforcement”.

But Mr Hollis denied he or ACPO were suggesting legalisation of the personal use of cannabis.

In a statement issued through ACPO, the senior officer said: “I am firmly of the view that our efforts are best utilised in focusing on organised crime and those dealing in drugs rather than simple possession.

“This is particularly so when we are confronted by significant cuts to police budgets.

“The emerging evidence is that putting young people before the courts for simple possession does not solve the problem.

“A more sophisticated approach combining prevention and education, enforcement and treatment is required.”

Mr Hollis said the police welcomed the current continuing Government review of drugs strategy.

He said: “It is very timely and we await the outcome with interest.

“In the meantime, the police will continue to exercise their discretion when dealing with those who have modest amounts for personal possession as we already have powers to issue cautions or give advice in such circumstances as appropriate.

“There is good scientific evidence that cannabis causes harm in our communities and tackling those who peddle the drug will continue to be a priority for police.

“The question of the legalisation of any drug is a matter for the Government and their advisors.”

Earlier this week, one of Britain’s leading experts on cannabis proposed the idea of introducing a licence to smoke cannabis legally.

Professor Roger Pertwee said making cannabis as available as alcohol would prevent drug-related crime, and reduce the chances of people being introduced to harder narcotics.

But he cautioned that it might be necessary to prevent vulnerable individuals obtaining the drug.

A Home Office spokesman said: “There is clear evidence that cannabis is a harmful drug which can cause damage to mental health in the immediate and longer-term.

“Even occasional use of cannabis can be dangerous for people with diseases of the circulatory system.

“The Government does not believe decriminalisation of cannabis is the right approach.

“Our priorities are clear – we want to reduce drug use, crack down on drug-related crime and disorder and help addicts come off drugs for good.”