More young people being treated for cannabis use

By Tom Lloyd Friday, 11 January 2008

The number of children and young people being treated for cannabis use has increased since the drug was reclassified.

Different types of cannabis

Figures obtained by The Daily Telegraph newspaper show that the number of under 18s treated rose from 8,014 in 2005/06 to 9,259 in 2006/07.

Cannabis was moved from Class B to Class C status in January 2004, resulting in lower penalties for possession of the drug. However the Prime Minister Gordon Brown is believed to be considering a reversal of the move.

The Department of Health said the rise in the number of people being treated was due to improvements in services rather than an increase in use.

Separately the department has announced a £398m investment in drug treatment services in 2008/09.

Public health minister Dawn Primarolo said: "Tackling drug misuse is a key government priority and we have achieved a great deal in tackling the harm that drugs cause to both individuals and society."