<P> Cannabis in the United Kingdom is widely used as an illegal drug, while other strains lower in THC (commonly called hemp) have been used industrially for over a thousand years for fibre, oil, and seeds . </P> <P> Cannabis has been restricted as a drug in the United Kingdom since 1928, though its usage as a recreational drug was limited until the 1960s, when increasing popularity led to stricter 1971 classification . Since the end of the twentieth century, there has been rising interest in cannabis - based medicine, and a number of advocacy groups have pressed the government to reform its cannabis drug policies . </P> <P> The oldest evidence of cannabis in Britain was from some seeds found in a well in York; seeds found at Micklegate were associated with a 10th - century Viking settlement . Since it appears to have been mostly grown around the coastal areas it suggests the main reason for cultivating it was as a source of vegetable fibre which was stronger and more durable than stinging nettle or flax . This makes it ideal for making into cordage, ropes, fishing nets and canvas . </P>

Is weed legal for personal use in the uk