IT is a controversial subject and one that stimulates plenty of debate.

The consumption of Class B drug cannabis should remain completely illegal, according to some while others insist we should move with the times and legalise it.

A prankster put signs up in Clyde Road, Brighton, which suggested that in certain designated areas no action would be taken against anyone who chose to smoke cannabis in public. This is, of course, not true despite Brighton’s reputation as a city with “liberal values”.

Police forces tend to target the dealers and many will say “quite right too” especially as it is often the case they also peddle Class A drugs such as cocaine and heroin.

On the opposite side of the fence, it is argued that cannabis is no more dangerous than cigarettes and alcohol and that if it were to be legalised and its sale strictly monitored and taxed, then billions of pounds could be pumped into the economy.

It is also worth pointing out that cannabis is believed to have some medical benefits and indeed its use has been advocated by some in the medical profession, although again many dispute that and point to side effects associated with long-term usage. So, what is the best way forward and what, if any, is the solution to such a contentious subject?

There is certainly every reason to believe that reasoned debate between politicians, drug councillors, the medical profession and indeed high-profile regular users could provide some answers.

Right now it is probably best to maintain the status quo until a better solution is found. It is still a very dangerous drug.