Cannabis decriminalisation debate could be delayed

Deputy Tom Coles wants the government to complete the law changes by November 2025

Ministers have told the States they need more time to come up with legislation to decriminalise the personal use of cannabis.

The States Assembly are due to debate plans from Deputy Tom Coles next week, who said the current rules had "created a two-tier system".

The proposal would mean people who were caught with small amounts of the drug on them should not face criminal action.

However ministers want to change that deadline because they say there is not enough time to do all the necessary research and safety investigations.

Instead, ministers are suggesting they come forward with proposals by November 2025, which would then have to be debated in the States.

Mr Coles wants the government to complete the law changes by November 2025.

Deputy Alex Curtis also wants to decriminalise the growing of cannabis.

He said it would "prevent the scenario in which an individual could be criminalised for growing a quantity of cannabis that, once dried, would be decriminalised to possess and consume".

The debates are scheduled to begin on Tuesday.