The relaxed cannabis laws were expected to go into effect in July. However, the Home Office said implementing the revised penalties for marijuana possession must wait until a criminal-justice bill becomes law. The bill is facing uncertainty in the House of Lords.

"This is a long and complex bill and the priority has been to ensure full discussion of its many provisions," said a Home Office spokesman. "Reclassification will take effect when the new penalties for cannabis possession are in force, which is likely to be in January."

Under the Misuse of Drugs Act, marijuana would be downgraded from a class B drug to class C. As a result, the maximum penalty for marijuana possession would be reduced from five years to two. In most cases, offenders would receive a warning and the drugs would be confiscated.

"There will be a presumption against arrest, except where public order is at risk or where children are vulnerable," a Home Office spokesman said. "The police will also ensure that those who repeatedly flout the law are arrested and dealt with. Young people found in possession of cannabis will receive a formal warning at a police station."

The revised law would also increase the penalties for dealing and importing class C drugs to a maximum of 14 years in prison.

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