Illegal drugs are put into three classes: A, B and C – according to the harm that they can do to you. Class A is the most harmful.

Dealing in drugs, including possession with intent to supply is regarded by the law as a more serious offence than possession for personal use.

What the law says about class A drugs

Class A drugs include cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin, LSD and magic mushrooms.

It is Illegal to have, give away or to deal in class A drugs. Possession with intent to supply is also illegal.

Offences under Class A are the most serious and carry the heaviest penalties.

Maximum Penalties under the law

Possession:
7 Years in jail plus an unlimited fine

Supplying/dealing:
Life imprisonment plus an unlimited fine

Possession with intent to supply:
Life imprisonment plus an unlimited fine

What the law says about class B drugs

Class B drugs include speed (amphetamines).

The law treats any class B drug that’s prepared for injection as a Class A drug.

It’s illegal to have, give away or deal in Class B drugs. Possession with intent to supply is also illegal.

Maximum Penalties under the law

Possession:
5 years in jail plus an unlimited fine

Supplying/dealing:
14 years in jail plus an unlimited fine

Possession with intent to supply:
14 years in jail plus an unlimited fine

What the law says about class C drugs

Class C drugs include cannabis, GHB, anabolic steroids and tranquillisers such as Valium.

It is illegal to have, give away or to deal in Class C drugs. Possession with intent to supply is also illegal.

And so is growing cannabis plants. Possession of Anabolic steroids for personal use is legal in some circumstances.

Maximum Penalties under the law

Possession:
2 years in jail plus an unlimited fine

Supplying/dealing:
14 years in jail plus an unlimited fine

Possession with intent to supply:
14 years in jail plus an unlimited fine