Call for debate on decriminalisation of cannabis

Only people who are prescribed medicinal cannabis can use the drug legally

A Jersey politician is asking the States to decriminalise the personal use of cannabis.

Currently only people who are prescribed the drug for medical use can do so legally.

Deputy Tom Coles said the current rules "have created a two-tier system" and his proposal would change that.

The proposal includes an acceptable gram allowance, restrictions on areas of consumption and restrictions on driving under the influence.

Deputy Coles said the proposition was meant to guide the government on "what is better" for people.

'Two-tiered system'

In the proposal, Mr Coles said: "With the adoption of P.97/2023, the Draft Crime Law 202, centeniers were given the power to impose fines at Parish Hall level up to a maximum of £200.

"This effectively decriminalises cannabis at a low-level of possession which, although it still has sanctions, does not lead to a criminal conviction.

"However, it still involves individuals in who are in possession of a small amount of cannabis for personal use being detained.

"It seems that there is a two-tiered system in relation to cannabis in Jersey given that medicinal cannabis can now be legally prescribed."

He said police being deployed to deal with people using medicinal cannabis was "perhaps not the best use" of resources.

"An individual, with a prescription for medicinal cannabis can carry their cannabis on their person," Mr Coles said.

"The police can stop and search the individual and remove their prescribed cannabis until such time as proof of their prescription is perhaps not the best use of police resources."

He continued: "It is not the intention of this proposition to bind the hands of the government but to guide them in what is better for our society.

"The changes brought forward by this Proposition will bring us further in line with the government’s own Substance Use Strategy."

The earliest date for debate would be 25 June.