A new poll shows that a clear majority of adults in Great Britain support decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use.
According to the survey, conducted by YouGov and released May 28, 54% of respondents say they support such a policy change. This includes 31% who say they “somewhat support” and 23% who “strongly support” decriminalization. By contrast, just 34% are opposed, with 15% saying they “somewhat oppose” and 19% saying they “strongly oppose.” Another 13% said they’re unsure.
The results are based on responses from 5,306 adults throughout Great Britain. The survey asked: “Would you support or oppose decriminalising possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use?”
The findings come amid growing calls in the U.K. to shift away from punitive drug laws in favor of a health-centered approach. Advocates argue that criminal penalties for low-level marijuana possession disproportionately impact certain communities and do little to curb use.
Although the U.K. allows limited access to marijuana for medical use, recreational use remains illegal and possession can carry criminal penalties, including fines or jail time. Still, enforcement has varied by region, with some police departments deprioritizing minor possession offenses.
The polling results suggest growing public support for reforming the country’s marijuana laws, especially as more countries and U.S. states move to legalize or decriminalize the substance.
