The Sentencing Council has published a new guideline for judges and magistrates on the sentencing of drug offences.

The new guideline, which has been issued following a 12-week public consultation, will come into effect on 27 February 2012.  Although primarily aimed at criminal justice professionals, the guideline is specifically designed to be accessible and clear to the public.

The Council has also published a response to the consultation which summarises some of the very useful feedback and comments we received.