List of British politicians who have acknowledged cannabis use

Theodor von Hörmann Hanfeinlegen

David Cameron official

Official portrait of Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP crop 2

Boris Johnson official portrait

Official portrait of Rt Hon Dominic Raab MP crop 2

Jacqui Smith, September 2009 cropped

List of British Politicians Who Have Acknowledged Cannabis Use

The topic of cannabis use among British politicians has become increasingly relevant in discussions about drug policy reform in the United Kingdom. Over the years, several politicians have publicly acknowledged their past cannabis use, sparking debates on the implications for drug policy and the stigma surrounding drug use. This article provides a list of British politicians who have admitted to using cannabis at some point in their lives.

Politicians Who Have Acknowledged Cannabis Use

• Boris Johnson - The former Prime Minister and member of the Conservative Party admitted to trying cannabis in his youth. Johnson's admission came during his time as an MP, sparking discussions on the need for drug policy reform.

• David Cameron - Another former Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative Party, David Cameron, acknowledged smoking cannabis during his school years at Eton College. His admission highlighted the prevalence of drug use among individuals from all social strata.

• Nick Clegg - The former Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg, has spoken openly about his cannabis use in the past. Clegg has been a vocal advocate for drug policy reform, arguing for a more evidence-based approach to drug use.

• Jacqui Smith - The former Home Secretary and member of the Labour Party, Jacqui Smith, admitted to using cannabis during her university years. Her admission came amidst debates on the classification of cannabis under UK drug laws.

• Nigel Farage - The leader of the Brexit Party and former leader of the UK Independence Party, Nigel Farage, has mentioned trying cannabis while a student. Farage's comments have contributed to the conversation on the legal status of cannabis in the UK.

• Ed Miliband - The former leader of the Labour Party, Ed Miliband, has acknowledged experimenting with cannabis during his time at university. Miliband's admission reflects the broader discussion on drug use and its implications for public policy.

Implications for Drug Policy

The admissions of cannabis use by these politicians have fueled debates on the United Kingdom's drug policy, particularly concerning the legal status of cannabis. Advocates for drug policy reform argue that such admissions highlight the need for a more rational and evidence-based approach to drug use, suggesting that current laws may be out of step with societal attitudes and the realities of drug use among the population.

See Also

• Drug policy of the United Kingdom
• Cannabis in the United Kingdom
• Legal status of cannabis