Luxembourg becomes first in Europe to legalise growing and using cannabis

Relaxation is part of government rethink designed to keep users away from illegal market

Adults in Luxembourg will be permitted to grow up to four cannabis plants in their homes or gardens under laws that will make it the first country in Europe to legalise production and consumption of the drug.

The announcement on Friday by Luxembourg's government was said to deliver fundamental changes in the country's approach to recreational cannabis use and cultivation in light of the failure of prohibition to deter use.