As the UK gears up for the General Election, political parties have unveiled their manifestos, revealing a variety of policies that impact the cannabis sector directly and indirectly. These policies range from innovative healthcare initiatives to reforms in drug legislation, indicating potential shifts that could reshape the landscape of medical cannabis and natural medicines in the UK.
Labour
Labour states that they intend to develop an NHS strategy to give incentives to accelerate the introduction of new technologies and medicines. However, their manifesto does not mention cannabis directly. To address public safety, new Respect Orders would be introduced to ban repeat offenders from town centres to curb public drinking and drug use.
There is also a plan to adjust the NHS to better manage chronic diseases, though natural medicines are not specifically addressed.
Conservatives
The Conservatives' manifesto also does not include a stance on medical or cannabis directly, though they state that they would “support research into new treatments, including for Parkinson’s and motor neurone disease and secure more commercial clinical trials to remove bureaucratic obstacles to the use of new medicines”.
The party proposes a ten-year drug plan focusing on rehabilitation and crime reduction. They also propose to reform the planning system to expedite permissions for agricultural infrastructure like glasshouses.
Liberal Democrat’s
The Liberal Democrats' manifesto proposes establishing a legal, regulated cannabis market to protect youth and disband criminal gangs, with sales limited to adults from licensed outlets and stringent THC controls. They plan to shift the drug policy leadership to the Department of Health and Social Care to address drug misuse, redirecting those arrested for personal use into treatment and reducing the reliance on Stop and Search.
They aim to facilitate faster access to medicines by aligning with the European Medicines Agency and target investing 3% of GDP in R&D by 2030, aiming for 3.5% by 2034. They advocate for environmental sustainability and propose a Research and Innovation Fund to spur advancements in sectors like alternative proteins.
The Green Party
The Greens advocate for decriminalising personal drug possession, asserting that prohibition and policing have not curbed drug use or diminished the criminal market. They propose redirecting individuals from the criminal justice system into support services for addiction, housing, and employment, emphasising harm reduction. The party calls for adequate funding for smoking cessation and drug treatment, and seeks an end to routine stop and search practices.
They support forming a National Commission to overhaul the UK's ineffective drug laws with evidence-based reforms.
Reform UK
Alternatively, Reform seeks to create a new offence for substantial drug possession with severe fines and advocates for a significant increase in the use of stop and search. Nigel Farage is quoted: “All I would say is, cannabis does more long-term harm than most people realise”.
The SNP
The SNP however advocates decriminalising drugs for personal use, introducing a framework to allow Supervised Drug Consumption Facilities. They would plan to take a public health approach to address drug-related deaths, suggesting the decentralisation of powers to the Scottish Parliament to enhance harm reduction and life quality in Scotland.
The Election and Product Earth
This election comes at a pivotal time for the UK, particularly for sectors like ours that are closely watching the evolving policies on medical cannabis and natural medicines. The manifestos reflect a growing recognition of the need for innovative solutions in healthcare and drug reform. At Product Earth, we are keenly aware of how crucial these reforms are.
"Reforming our drug policies isn't just about the law—it's about compassion, progress, and the health of our communities. This election, let's choose a future where everyone has the support and freedom they deserve".
Matt Clifton - CEO, Product Earth
Recent cannabis legislation in Germany sets a positive signal for the UK, where we hope similar progressive steps will be taken following the election. Such changes could greatly benefit patients and consumers.
As we prepare for Product Earth London 2024, we continue to support and celebrate these advances. The expo will not only showcase the latest in cannabis and natural medicine but also serve as a platform for discussing and promoting the significant benefits these products bring to society. Our recent move to London reflects this, as do many of the speakers in our upcoming seminars.
The outcome of the upcoming general election could greatly influence the direction of our industry, and we encourage everyone to stay informed and engaged in these critical discussions. This is an exciting time for the cannabis industry, and we look forward to playing a part in shaping its future in the UK and beyond.
Click here to get your tickets now and join the fight for natural medicines in the UK.
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