Whether or not this is baloney, I am not sure... Our media here makes me wonder constantly... Apparently though, there is a shortage of (legal) pot in Washington state, as the process to become licensed is so onerous. It makes me wonder when I see the article as was posted in the gleaner, and your commentary regarding the UK, if it is just a foregone conclusion that big business will take over. I don't partake, but I am well aware of the many industrial uses available for hemp on a generalized basis, let alone the recreational and medicinal values of ganja. If there is money to be made, the corporations will find a way to take it.
I don't think there will be a class war, I think that corporations will just have their way as always seems to be the case. Kinda sad, really.