Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan is backing the decriminalisation of possessing small amounts of natural cannabis in London, following a report from the London Drugs Commission (LDC). The commission's findings highlight disproportionate policing and sentencing, particularly affecting Black communities, and advocate for a shift towards education and public health strategies over criminal penalties.

The LDC, established by Khan in 2022 and chaired by former Justice Secretary Lord Falconer KC, conducted an extensive review involving over 200 experts and international case studies. Their report concludes that current laws under the Misuse of Drugs Act are outdated and unjustified, especially considering the relative harm of cannabis compared to other substances.

Khan emphasised the need for fresh thinking to reduce the harms associated with drug-related crime, stating that the current sentencing for those caught in possession of natural cannabis cannot be justified. He highlighted the importance of better education, improved healthcare, and more effective, equitable policing of cannabis use.

The proposal has met with mixed reactions. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp expressed opposition, asserting that cannabis remains illegal for valid reasons. Similarly, the Home Office reiterated its stance on maintaining cannabis as a Class B substance.

Despite the political pushback, Khan remains committed to exploring evidence-based approaches to drug policy, drawing inspiration from international models such as California's legalisation of cannabis. He has already directed the Metropolitan Police to use intervention strategies over arrests for minor drug offences.