Medical Cannabis (Access) Bill

Debate between Rosena Allin-Khan and Sally-Ann Hart

Friday 10th December 2021 Commons Chamber

[Sally-Ann Hart]

I do not want to conflate them, but we have to be aware of that. We must also be aware that using cannabis, medicinally or otherwise, carries risk. There is really not enough data on the effects of cannabis on a child’s brain development, for example. Cannabis carries significant mental health risks for some individuals, and using it increases the risk of developing psychosis, depression and anxiety, as highlighted by Professor Colin Drummond, chair of the addictions faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

[Dr Allin-Khan]

What effect does the hon. Member think it has on a child’s brain to have upwards of 30 seizures a day?

[Sally-Ann Hart]

I absolutely welcome that intervention from the hon. Lady. Thirty brain seizures a day would have a devastating impact on a child, but we also have to look at the cost-benefit analysis of the drugs that are being administered.