Kent crime commissioner Matthew Scott has called for the drug known as ‘spice’ to be reclassified amid mounting concerns over its effects.

Mr Scott has joined 20 Conservative crime commissioners who say the current response by the government to the escalating use of the drug is ‘woefully inadequate’ and have urged the Home Office to consider reclassification to reflect its growing use and the impact it was having on police forces.

The letter says: “The widescale abuse of these debilitating drugs within towns, cities and even villages is one of the most severe public health issue we have faced in decades and presently the response to tackle the issue is woefully inadequate.”

Synthetic cannabinoid substances, which are commonly known by the name ‘Spice’, cause users to exhibit highly unpredictable and often extremely aggressive behaviour. It has been linked to at least 16 deaths in 2016 in England and Wales.

Mr Scott said: “These are dangerous substances that cause real harm, not just to the individuals using them, but also the vulnerable people who are exploited to sell them in our communities.”

“These drugs are currently classified as Class B, alongside drugs like cannabis but I believe that the time is right to look again and reclassify Spice as a Class A drug.”

“This would mean longer sentences, of up to seven years and an unlimited fine for possession, and potentially life imprisonment and an unlimited fine for those who deal.”

The letter warns:“The drugs are often referred to as “zombie drugs” due to the incapacitating and unpredictable psychoactive effects which manifest once taken; users are increasingly seen slumped on the streets in a state of semi consciousness, often passed out, sometimes aggressive and always highly unpredictable. We need this evil substance off our streets, alongside those who sell it receiving lengthy prison sentences.”

“As Police and Crime Commissioners we believe the government needs to take a closer look at what can be done to deter and prevent those selling it and support those dependent on it.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We recognise how dangerous synthetic cannabinoids, such as those supplied under the brand name Spice, can be and the devastating impact that they can have on communities, families and the individuals taking them.

“That is why we acted to control these substances as Class B drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act and give the police the powers they need to take action, including making possession illegal and delivering longer sentences for dealers.

“Following two previous changes to legislation, the most recent controls for 'third generation' synthetic cannabinoids only came into effect in December 2016. However, as with all controlled drugs we will continue to monitor their impact.”