Don't be a dope with cannabis

The re-classification of cannabis in the categories of drugs should be seen by the trade for what it is ­ a change in the technical administration of drugs offences.

It will allow the police to concentrate on so-called "harder" drugs and especially on identifying and catching dealers, wherever they operate.

But it does not, as some suppose, decriminalise the possession and/or use of cannabis itself.

Pubs are social venues where all kinds of people meet up, for a variety of reasons.

Among these reasons might be business, or the planning of a crime, or a swindle, or ­ like Del Boy ­ doing a deal.

Much of this activity is, by its nature, unknown to the landlord.

But the licensee's responsibility is to ensure, as far as possible, that the activities which take place on his premises are acceptable in law.

Among many offences outlined in various pieces of legislation is that of "aiding and abetting" an offence, or "knowingly permitting" premises to be used for certain unlawful actions.

So turning a blind eye is often seen by the law as an offencein itself, and the police are aware of this.

While they may be prioritising certain types of crime, it does not mean that you can.

Allowing the smoking of cannabis, and permitting dealing in the drug on your premises, will sooner rather than later attract the attention of the police.

First of all, word will get around that you have a relaxed attitude towards dope, and perhaps even more users or dealers will make their way to your doors.

The cumulative effect of this will be to move your premises into the "priority" category, even though the actualactivities themselves may be relatively low down the scale.

So my advice is, as always, to exercise a "zero tolerance" attitude to drugs of any kind ­ and be seen to do so.

Instruct your staff on your views, preferably in writing.

Make sure you are seen to be acting positively in this respect.

And if you have even the slightest suspicion that any form of dealing is taking place, let the police know at once.

You cannot subsequently be charged with permitting an offence if you have been the person alerting them to the possibility.

Even if they take no immediate action, your call will have been logged and can do you no harm in the long term.

Rather you tell them than someone else does.