Adopting UK cannabis laws 'an interim measure' says health minister

Health minister to make a statement in Tynwald October sitting

Cannabis legislation will remain in line with the UK whilst the department of health and social care develops 'bespoke Manx regulations' for the long term.

Minister David Ashford confirmed in Tynwald yesterday his department is working on a licensing regime to be 'appropriate for the Island'.

He says introducing regulations for the cultivation of the crop for both medical and industrial uses will be done with a 'measured and staged approach'.

Mr Ashford's response came in light of a motion by Ramsey MHK Dr Alex Allinson, which called for regulations to be laid before the court after the summer recess.

The department, which is already in discussions with Manx doctors about prescribing the drug, will now report with an update on prospective changes by the October sitting of Tynwald.

Whilst work is ongoing in this area, the minister says the 'Island is open for business' and industry will consulted once a regime has been drafted.

Over 4,000 people responded to the public consultations earlier in the year into the usage of cannabis, the majority of whom were in the 30 to 39 age range.