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May urged to scrap khat ban

An influential group of MPs urged the Home Secretary to stop plans to criminalise the herb khat, favoured by the Somali and Yemeni communities. The mild stimulant, which causes a feeling of euphoria similar to coffee, will become a Class C drug.

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Khat ban prevents UK becoming 'hub for criminals'

The ban on khat will bring Britain up to speed with the rest of the Europe and prevent the UK from becoming "a regional hub for criminals", according to the Home Office.

Despite recommendations from experts that khat should remain in the public domain, the Home Office decided a ban would be in the best interests of the public.

Banning khat in the UK will protect the public from risks associated with its misuse.

It will also prevent Britain from becoming a single, regional hub for criminals trying to make a profit as countries across Europe have implemented the same ban.

– A Home Office spokeswoman

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