Petition · Home Office

Review how controlled substances are classified

Closed 44 signatures

What the petition asks

The Government should review how controlled substances are classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 based on current scientific evidence of their actual harm and addictiveness. We think criminalisation of substances creates a monopolised illegal drug market that funds further criminal activity.
We think organised crime thrives on the illegal drug trade, using profits to fund violence and exploitation. We think many less harmful substances remain banned, giving criminals a monopoly over supply and promoting the development of harmful substances like synthetic marijuana.

We think reclassifying drugs based on scientific evidence of actual harm would reduce criminal profits, support health-led interventions, and free up police resources. We think adopting a harm-based approach to drug policy would reduce crime and protect the public.

Timeline

7 Aug 2025 Petition opened for signatures
7 Feb 2026 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 44
Status Closed
Department Home Office
Opened 7 Aug 2025
Closed 7 Feb 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 20 Aug 2026.