More than 3,000 cannabis smokers ‘light up’ at Hyde Park

Thousands of people gathered in London to smoke cannabis despite police warnings not to during a demonstration against its illegality. The pro-cannabis rally – otherwise known as 4/20 – is held every year on April 20 in Hyde Park as marijuana smokers call on the Government to legalise the Class B drug. Smoke clouds could be seen rising above large crowds of cannabis enthusiasts, estimated to have amassed more than 3,000 people. Some members of the public wore marijuana themed outfits while nonchalantly smoking the drug. A large police presence was seen throughout the demonstration and a number of stop and searches were carried out. Before the event, the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) tweeted: “A reminder for those attending the rally at #HydePark today, officers will be enforcing drugs legislation #420.” The MPS confirmed that 12 people were arrested during the 4/20 event by 5.30pm, compared to more than 50 in 2015 and 23 last year. In 2001, Tony Blair confirmed he would be changing the classification of cannabis to Class C in the hope it would enable officers to concentrate on more serious drug offences. But he backtracked following the 2005 General Election, believing the move sent out the “wrong message”.