Following advice from senior clinicians, the Home Secretary has used an exceptional power to grant a Schedule 1 licence to allow Billy Caldwell to be treated with cannabis oil.
A full statement can be found below.
Home Secretary Sajid Javid said:
"This morning, I’ve used an exceptional power as Home Secretary to urgently issue a licence to allow Billy Caldwell to be treated with cannabis oil.
This is a very complex situation, but our immediate priority is making sure Billy receives the most effective treatment possible in a safe way.
We have been in close contact with Billy’s medical team overnight and my decision is based on the advice of senior clinicians who have made clear this is a medical emergency.
The Policing Minister met with the family on Monday and since then has been working to reach an urgent solution.