The incoming Labour government in the UK has revived the debate about smoking by pushing forward Rishi Sunak’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill. This bill aims to progressively increase the age at which people can buy cigarettes and impose limits on the sale and marketing of vapes to create a “smoke-free generation.” However, conspicuously absent from the discussion was any mention of cannabis, despite its significant health implications, particularly concerning mental health.

Tobacco and Vapes Bill

The Labour government’s legislative agenda includes stringent public health measures to curb smoking. By incrementally raising the legal purchase age for cigarettes and restricting vape sales and marketing, the bill aims to significantly reduce smoking rates among younger generations. Additionally, the government plans to reform the Mental Health Act, reflecting a broader focus on public health initiatives.

Cannabis and Mental Health

Despite the comprehensive nature of the proposed public health measures, cannabis use and its related harms were notably omitted. Cannabis has been linked to a range of severe mental health outcomes, including increased risks of suicide, self-harm, depression, anxiety, mania, and psychosis. A study published by The Lancet highlighted that daily cannabis use is associated with markedly higher odds of developing psychotic disorders. Specifically, the study found that daily users of high-potency cannabis had nearly five times the odds of experiencing psychosis compared to non-users.

Cannabis Clinics and Policy Stance

In response to the growing concern over cannabis-related mental health issues, a specialised cannabis clinic for patients with psychosis has been established in London. Despite this, Labour leader Keir Starmer has denied any intentions to liberalise access to cannabis. This stance appears increasingly discordant with the views within his party and even his Cabinet.

Political Context

The Labour government’s focus on tobacco and vaping regulations comes amidst a broader discourse on public health. However, the exclusion of cannabis from these discussions raises questions about the comprehensiveness of the government’s approach to substance abuse and mental health. Public health experts and mental health advocates argue that addressing the harms associated with cannabis use should be a parallel priority.

Implications

The omission of cannabis from the Labour government’s legislative agenda could have broader implications for public health policy. As the debate over cannabis legalisation and regulation continues to evolve, it remains crucial to consider the drug’s mental health impacts alongside those of tobacco and vaping products.

Source: UnHerd