The government will seek expert advice on reclassifying ketamine
to become a Class A substance, after illegal use of the drug
reached record levels in the year ending March 2023.
Ketamine is currently controlled as a Class B substance and the
maximum penalty for supplying and producing it is up to 14 years
in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
The prevalence of the drug in England and Wales has risen
significantly in recent years. In the year ending March 2023, an
estimated 299,000 people aged 16-59 had reported ketamine use in
the last year – the largest number on record.
It can cause serious health problems, such as irreversible damage
to the bladder and kidneys, and is one of the most detected
drugs in incidents of spiking.
Recent reports have shown Ketamine is often an ingredient
included in ‘pink cocaine', the dangerous synthetic drug cocktail
taken by users without knowing what mix of substances it
contains.
The policing minister, Dame will write to the Advisory
Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) to commission advice on
ketamine and to consider whether it should remain controlled as a
Class B substance or become a Class A drug.
Policing Minister, Dame , said:
Ketamine is an extremely dangerous substance and the recent rise
in its use is deeply concerning.
Through our Plan for Change and mission to make the nation's
streets safer, we will work across health, policing and wider
public services to drive down drug use and stop those who profit
from its supply.
It is vital we are responding to all the latest evidence and
advice to ensure people's safety and we will carefully consider
the ACMD's recommendations before making any decision.
Independent experts will now assess the evidence of the health
and social harms of ketamine when misused and will submit their
findings to Home Office Ministers for review.
The Home Office has a statutory duty to consult the ACMD under
the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 before any amendments to legislation
are made.
