First licence granted to grow medicinal cannabis

It was given to 4C Labs, which has a vinery site in the Forest.

But the other six applications that had been put forward have been rejected.

Guernsey has established a licensing framework with the UK that is the same as Jersey’s and the Isle of Man’s, via a memorandum of understanding.

This was requested by the sector in order to ensure Guernsey businesses were on a level playing field with competitors.

Seven applications were received and a number of businesses have invested in setting up, but 4C is only one to be licensed at this stage.

Health & Social Care president Al Brouard said it was delighted to approve the application.

‘The granting of the first licence represents a significant success, not only for the company itself, but also the regulatory framework we put in place and agreed with the UK,’ he said.

‘We had seven applications and that in itself is very promising and I would encourage them to re-apply if they feel able to make the adjustments needed.’

Each application is reviewed jointly by the Bailiwick of Guernsey Cannabis Agency and the UK Home Office and concludes with a site inspection. Applicants that do not secure a licence receive detailed feedback to support them with submitting further applications, if they wish to do so. Where appropriate, conditional extensions have been granted to licence holders to ensure that they continue to operate legally and to provide them with an opportunity to continue to progress towards the required standards.

Economic Development president Neil Inder said: ‘This is a new sector to Guernsey so it’s really important we get it right in terms of meeting international standards. That’s why we have the MoU in place with the UK, as it benefits businesses that apply as there’s a framework with clear standards to meet. I know that some applicants will be disappointed but we have provided feedback to them that there is a clear path to a second round of inspections should any of them choose to pursue it. The development of this sector is important as part of efforts to diversify our economy wherever possible.’

Cannabis remains a controlled drug within the Bailiwick. The cultivation of cannabis is strictly prohibited within the Bailiwick, unless carried out under licence.

Cannabis-based products medicinal often contain higher levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol – a psychoactive constituent of cannabis, and must meet high standards of cultivation and production. CBPM products are only available by prescription in the British Isles.

• Further information about the application process is available at: https://gov.gg/cannabislicensing.