The new drug laws recently passed through the Italian parliament came into effect on 5 April following publication of the amount of drugs that may be carried for personal use. The amounts are as follows:-

Heroin 10 doses of 25 mg, cocaine 5 doses of 150 mg, cannabis 1520 doses of 25 mg, Ecstasy 5 tablets of 150 mg, amphetamines 5 tablets of 100 mg and Lsd 3 tablets of 0,05 mg.

Although those carrying drugs for personal use will not have to appear in court they do risk losing their driving license.

Anyone carrying larger quantities than those permitted risk being accused of pushing, or selling drugs and could be imprisoned for from 6 to 20 years.