Misuse of Drugs Act 1971

Drugs

The primary statute governing the control of drugs in the United Kingdom. It classifies controlled drugs into Class A, B, and C based on their potential for harm. The Act creates offences of possession, possession with intent to supply, production, and supply. Class A drugs (such as heroin, cocaine, and MDMA) attract the most severe penalties.

In practice

Section 23 of the Act gives a constable who has reasonable grounds to suspect a person is in possession of a controlled drug the power to search them. Section 23(2) provides powers to enter and search premises where there are reasonable grounds to suspect controlled drugs are to be found. Evidence obtained under section 23 must comply with PACE Code B where premises are searched.

Related terms

Stop and search
Reasonable grounds

Last updated 24 September 2026