MP GORDON Prentice today welcomed the downgrading of the drug cannabis.

It is being reclassified from Class B to Class C, which means that those caught in possession of a small quantity of "pot" for personal use will not face prosecution.

Repeat offenders and dealers, however, will still risk court action and punishment.

Today, the Pendle Labour MP, a long-term campaigner to legalise the medical use of cannabis and its derivatives, said: "The change in classification will enable the police to target Class A drugs like heroin and crack that cause the most harm to users, families and their communities.

"The change in classification follows the recommendations of the expert Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs and the All-party Home Affairs Select Committee.

"I also want to see cannabis back in the medicine cupboard. Before 1973, it could be prescribed by doctors to help those patients whose conditions did not respond to conventional medical treatment.

"I am hopeful this paves the way for bringing back medicinal use."

The change will come into force from January 29 next year after being decided by Parliament.