If you want to follow in the footsteps of Sir Paul McCartney and start growing hemp then you will need to abide by the rules .
The Beatles star is one of around 20 people in the UK who have been granted a Home Office licence to grow hemp . As reported in the latest issue of The CANNAVIST , McCartney said : “ The funny thing with government regulations is you ' ve got to keep it where people can ' t see it , because you get all the kids coming in and robbing it !” But there is a lot more to licencing regulations than keeping the crop hidden from potential thieves . More and more farmers are looking to hemp cultivation to meet the rising demand for the product . Not only is it increasingly used for CBD extraction , hemp can also be used to make paper , rope , clothing , paint , biofuel and animal feed . It is an attractive proposition for farmers as it is one of the world ’ s fastest-growing plants and thrives in a wide range of climates . John Barrett , a former Arable Farmer of the Year finalist , grows hemp on his Norfolk farm . He said : “ Hemp is a crop with a great future in a market that needs developing . " We as an industry need to collaborate more on the market for it and to collaborate with the end user .” So , if you are looking to switch from traditional farming to hemp cultivation here are some things you will need to know about getting licenced :
Before applying for a licence
Check out the ‘ Industrial Hemp Application Guide ’ on the GOV . UK website as it covers every aspect of the application process . You must also register with the controlled drugs licencing system and agree to have a criminal records check carried out .
How much does a licence cost ?
First time licences cost £ 580 and renewals are £ 326 ( at time of writing ).
What happens after submission ?
Government officers will check your forms to ensure all the paperwork is correct . It may be necessary for officers to visit your farm to help them decide whether or not to grant a licence . If you need to provide additional information or documentation , then you must comply within the time frame given by the officer . The consideration and decision-making process can sometimes be a lengthy task , as all recommendations are subject to the senior officer ’ s review .
When can I apply ?
For new 2022 licences , applications can be submitted from Monday January 3 . Monday 28 February is the last day you can register on the controlled drugs licencing system . Friday April 1 is the last date that applicants of industrial hemp licences can submit all their relevant documents .
What does the licence cover ?
Licences for industrial hemp are generally valid for three growing seasons . The licence only allows for the industrial use of the seed and fibre , which are non-controlled parts of the hemp plant . The licence does not allow for the use of the flowers or leaves .
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