UKP1M CAMPAIGN TO EXPLAIN DRUG LAWS

The Government is to spend UKP1 million on a campaign to remind people that
cannabis remains illegal, despite next week's reclassification of the drug
from class B to class C.

Millions of leaflets will be distributed from Thursday, a week before the
change relaxing the cannabis law comes into effect. The message will also
be spread through advertisements.

The campaign will warn that the drug is harmful, amid growing concern that
prolonged use of cannabis is linked to mental illness.

The Association of Chief Police Officers and Frank, a Government-backed
drug advisory group, will run the initiative which is funded by the Home
Office.

Caroline Flint, the Home Office minister responsible for drugs policy,
said: "Cannabis is harmful and will remain illegal after January 29, when
it is reclassified to class C. That is the message. Cannabis remains
illegal and under-18s will still be arrested for possession."

The majority of people found in possession of small amounts of cannabis
will no longer be arrested, but will be given a caution and the drugs
confiscated.

Those arrested may still face prosecution or conviction, or a formal
caution, both of which leave a criminal record. People under 18 found in
possession will receive a formal warning.