CANNABIS has been reclassified as a class B drug from class C.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith took the decision as she said the drug’s effect on the mental health of a user is still uncertain.

But possession of cannabis will not automatically lead to a court appearance. In England and Wales possession of the drug will usually attract a warning, unless there are aggravating factors like children being present at the time.

A second offence of possession is likely to lead to an £80 spot fine while being caught a third time will probably mean arrest and an appearance before magistrates.

But what do you think?

Do you think a higher classification will deter people from using it or will it make no difference to users?

If cannabis is potentially dangerous as the Home Secretary suggests, shouldn’t people face arrest and prosecution on their first offence?