13/10/2006

Move to reclassify crystal meth as Class A drug

Crystal methamphetamine could be reclassified as a Class A drug, following moves to increase the penalties for taking the highly addictive substance.

The synthetic drug, which is known as crystal meth, ice or crank, can come in pill, powder or crystal form, and can be smoked, injected or snorted, producing a rush similar to crack cocaine.

High profile former addicts include singer Rufus Wainwright.

The substance is relatively easy to manufacture using household products, and police fear that the drug could gain mainstream popularity in a few years unless serious action is taken.

Reclassification of the drug from Class B to Class A would see users receiving an unlimited fine or facing up to seven years in jail.

New findings on drug abuse were also published on Friday, as the British Crime Survey showed a drop in the number of people using cannabis.

(CL/SP)

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