Drug Classes and Penalties
The United Kingdom Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 governs the class and penalties for drugs offences in Scotland. Drugs are graded into three classes - A, B, C. The grading depends on the amount of harm or potential for harm a drug causes individuals and society. The drugs which cause most harm are Class A, however all drugs have the potential to cause harm, even drugs in the lower classes. Penalties for possession and dealing in the three classes of drugs are as follows:
 |
| Heroin |
 |
| Cocaine powder |
|
Type of Drug |
For Possession |
For Production or Supply |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Up to 7 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
Up to life imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
|
|
Up to 5 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
Up to 14 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
|
|
Up to 2 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. (This applies to temazepam and valium if possessed without a prescription). |
Up to 14 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both. |
The SCDEA is fully committed to the four pillars' of the Scottish Executive's Drug Action Plan; Young People, Communities, Treatment and Availability, and plays a major role in promoting drugs education in Scotland. To find further information on specific drugs or general drugs issues, visit Know the Score.
All illicit drugs are harmful to the individual and society. Misusers are generally unaware of the strength, purity and content of the drug they purchase. Once taken they have no control over the effect the drug will have on them. The effect of a drug on an individual can change depending on its strength, any impurities, the environment and the general health and well being of the individual. Drug misuse does not simply effect the person consuming the drugs but most often their family, friends and in some ways the whole community.
For more information please contact Know the Score - Scotland's definitive drugs information gateway which will provide you with the facts on drugs in Scotland, whether you're a young person, a parent/relative, friend, carer or a community group.
