One of Britain's top former cops has now spoken out about the need for an 'urgent review' of the laws surrounding cannabis in the UK.
Lord Bernard Hogan-Howe, who was the commissioner of the Metropolitan Police between 2011 and 217 had previously supported a strong stance against the use of cannabis, or a relaxation of the laws.
Now, it appears that his beliefs have shifted following an investigation he performed for the Channel 4 TV show Dispatches.
After the legalisation of cannabis for recreational use in Canada last week, and the recent legalisation in parts of the USA, he believes that the time has come to further scrutinise the UK's existing laws surrounding cannabis.
As of November 1, cannabis will available on prescription for medical use. This is a recent development following several high-profile cases such as that of Alfie Dingley, whose severe epilepsy was greatly improved if treated with cannabis oil.
Lord Hogan-Howe said: "We already know from the evidence around the world that where people use it for medicinal purposes, it slides into recreational.
"Surely it's better that we get ready for that potential change.
"I've not seen clear evidence to say change the law now. But I have seen clear evidence to say let's review it, but in a time-limited way, not a kicking into the long grass way.
"I think we need to get on with it, now the government has made it easier to get medical cannabis on prescription.
"We're lucky - we're not the pioneers and we can learn from others' mistakes. The evidence is out there, and it shouldn't be ignored."
Despite the fact that cannabis will be available on prescription to certain patients in England, Scotland, and Wales as of next month, the Home Office says that they have no intention of legalising recreational cannabis use.
A spokesperson said: "The decriminalisation of cannabis would not eliminate the crime committed by the illicit trade, nor would it address the harms associated with drug dependence and the misery they can cause to families and society.
"Decriminalisation or legalisation would send the wrong message to the vast majority of people who do not take drugs, especially young and vulnerable people, with the potential grave risk of increased misuse of drugs."
Meanwhile, in Canada, a report that was published before the legalisation came into effect suggested that 70 percent of the proceeds from the sale of cannabis would go to Canada's provincial governments.
The report, which was created by the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, said: "We estimate that provincial governments will capture a stunning 70 percent of industry profits. ... Though provinces may claim otherwise, they are the big winners of legalisation."
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