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. |
