What does “Misuse of Drugs Act 1971” mean?

The primary UK legislation controlling dangerous or otherwise harmful drugs.

Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in plain English

The primary UK legislation controlling dangerous or otherwise harmful drugs.

It establishes the class system — A, B and C — and creates the principal offences of possession, possession with intent to supply, supply and production.

It is the Regulations made under it, rather than the Act itself, that permit medical use.

Frequently asked questions

What does misuse of drugs act 1971 mean?

The primary UK legislation controlling dangerous or otherwise harmful drugs.

Sources and further reading

Every factual statement on this page is drawn from the following public sources. Links open in a new tab and are not affiliated with Flora House.

  1. NICE guideline NG144: Cannabis-based medicinal products
  2. NHS: Medical cannabis (and cannabis oils)
  3. MHRA: The supply, manufacture, importation and distribution of unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use

Patient guide · Written by the Flora House editorial team · Last reviewed: 8 September 2026