Labour Government Bans Mephedrone

Wakefield MP Mary Creagh was in the House of Commons on 6 April to see the dangerous drug mephedrone banned by MPs. The amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act was passed without a vote and means that mephedrone is now a class B drug. People caught with "class B" drugs typically face a maximum sentence of five years in jail for possession and 14 years for trafficking.

 Home Secretary Alan Johnson had already banned the import of mephedrone, and instructed border officials to destroy shipments. Police will now be able to prosecute people caught in possession or seeking to distribute the drug.

In addition to the ban, the government is introducing a range of measures to tackle the drug. The FRANK website now provides information about its side effects - www.talktofrank.com/drugs.aspx. Leaflets warning that it is now illegal will be made available through the NUS and shops that sell the substance will be informed of the change in the law. The Department for Children, Schools and Families has written to all head teachers about the drug and hospital staff will be given up to date information.

Mary Creagh MP said: “I’m pleased we have been able to ban this drug before any more young people are put in danger. I was appalled to learn last month that student areas in Leeds were being targeted with leaflets selling this dangerous drug. I wrote to the Home Secretary on 15 March and am pleased that he has taken swift action by amending the Misuse of Drugs Act.”