Explanatory note

This Order amends Schedule 2 to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (c. 38) (“the Act”) to specify certain drugs as controlled drugs within the meaning of section 2(1)(a) of the Act.

Article 2(2) of this Order brings four acyl piperazine opioids and two chemically bridged acyl piperazine derivatives under control as Class A drugs under the Act.

Article 2(3) of this Order brings a range of 2-benzyl benzimidazole variants under generic control as Class A drugs under the Act, excluding those which are already controlled under the Act as Class A drugs.

Article 2(4) of this Order adds an additional common name and the full International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry name to the entry for methoxyphenidine, which is already controlled as a Class B drug under the Act.

Article 2(5) of this Order brings fifteen novel benzodiazepines and related compounds, and xylazine under control as Class C drugs under the Act.

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant impact on the private sector, voluntary sector or community bodies is foreseen. An economic note is annexed to the Explanatory Memorandum which is available alongside this instrument on www.legislation.gov.uk. Copies may be obtained from the Drug Misuse Unit of the Home Office at 2 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DF.