5a47ee68_n_of_cannabis_for_personal_use_use_in_the_different_countries_Notes
[Country] United Kingdom Cannabis-related offences, such as possession, are punishable by up to five years' imprisonment. For adults, police may warn or issue a penalty notice for disorder instead of prosecuting, as part of a three-point escalation process for cannabis possession for personal use. [Legislation] Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 s.5; ACPO Cannabis Enforcement Guidance [Level of prosecution] Whilst arrest is always the first presumption, an adult offender is likely to receive a cannabis warning for a first possession offence, and a penalty notice for disorder for a second offence. A third offence will result in arrest and consideration of likely further action including caution, conditional caution or prosecution. All subsequent offences are likely to result in arrest. If any aggravating factors are present the police will escalate the response accordingly. Ultimately, decisions as to the most appropriate disposal for an offender are made by the police and prosecution service. Distinction by law (class of substance) and police guidance (specific to cannabis) [Notes] 
In January 2009 cannabis was reclassified to Class B.
EMCDDA | Overviews of legal topics: possession of cannabis for personal use
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