Should the UK Reform its Cannabis Laws? A Pro-Cannabis Perspective
The conversation around cannabis legalisation in the UK has been heating up for years, with growing support from the public and increasing evidence of its benefits. Yet, despite the clear shift in attitudes, UK law remains largely unchanged, lagging behind many other progressive countries. Nations such as Canada, Germany, and multiple US states have already embraced legalisation, while the UK remains stuck in a decades-old prohibitionist stance. A recent YouGov survey has provided fresh insight into where both the British public and their elected Members of Parliament (MPs) stand on cannabis reform. The results reveal a significant disconnect between politicians and the people they represent, with a clear demand for reform among the public being met with reluctance from many MPs. With cannabis remaining a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the question remains: will Parliament ever catch up to public opinion?
Public vs. MP Opinions on Cannabis Legalisation
According to the YouGov survey, public support for cannabis legalisation is higher than ever, yet MPs remain far more conservative in their views. While 45% of the general public supports legalisation, only 39% of MPs are in favour. Opposition among MPs is significantly stronger, with 50% opposed, compared to 42% of the public.
| Stance | MPs (%) | Public (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Support | 39 | 45 |
| Oppose | 50 | 42 |
When given the option of legalisation, decriminalisation, or keeping cannabis illegal, the gap becomes even clearer. While 31% of the public supports full legalisation, only 25% of MPs agree. Meanwhile, 38% of MPs still prefer cannabis to remain fully illegal, compared to only 33% of the general public.
| Option | MPs (%) | Public (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Keep Illegal | 38 | 33 |
| Decriminalise | 28 | 24 |
| Legalise | 25 | 31 |
Age and Political Influence on Cannabis Views
One of the biggest predictors of cannabis support is age. Younger Britons overwhelmingly support reform, while older generations remain more sceptical. This generational divide suggests that as younger voters become a larger political force, cannabis legalisation in the UK may be inevitable. The survey found that the 18-24 age group is the most in favour of legalisation, with 47% supporting it and only 35% opposed. Support remains strong in the 25-49 demographic but begins to decline significantly among those aged 50 and over. The 65+ age group is the most resistant, with 52% opposing legalisation.
| Age Group | Support Legalisation (%) | Oppose Legalisation (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 47 | 35 |
| 25-49 | 53 | 35 |
| 50-64 | 39 | 47 |
| 65+ | 36 | 52 |
Political Divide on Cannabis Legalisation
Political alignment also plays a significant role in shaping opinions on cannabis reform. As expected, Labour and Liberal Democrat voters show the highest levels of support for legalisation, while Conservative and Reform UK supporters remain much more resistant to change. Among Labour voters, a majority support legalisation (53%), with only 33% opposed. Liberal Democrat voters are slightly more divided but still lean in favour of reform. On the other end of the spectrum, 64% of Conservative voters oppose cannabis legalisation, making them the most resistant political group.
| Party | Support Legalisation (%) | Oppose Legalisation (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Labour | 53 | 33 |
| Lib Dems | 46 | 40 |
| Conservatives | 28 | 64 |
| Reform UK | 41 | 48 |
Medical Cannabis: The One Point of Agreement
While views on recreational cannabis remain divisive, there is strong agreement on medical cannabis. A remarkable 83% of MPs and 73% of the public support allowing doctors to prescribe cannabis for medical purposes. This widespread acceptance suggests that even among those opposed to full legalisation, the therapeutic benefits of cannabis are becoming harder to deny. There has recently been a debate in Westminster Hall on the reform of medical cannabis.
Final Thoughts
The public is ready for cannabis reform, yet many MPs remain stuck in outdated prohibitionist policies. Despite the growing body of scientific research showcasing the medicinal and economic benefits of a regulated cannabis market, decision-makers continue to lag behind other countries embracing reform. With multiple countries proving that cannabis legalisation can be successfully implemented, the UK faces a choice—continue enforcing outdated laws or adapt to the shifting public perspective. With increasing support from younger generations, cannabis legalisation in the UK is no longer a matter of if, but when. At Big Hippo, we believe the evidence is clear—it’s time for a change. If public opinion continues shifting, will Parliament finally listen?