The acquisition and transportation of ingredients and implements intended for use in the manufacture of prohibited drugs does not, without more, constitute taking a step in the process of manufacture within s 6 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW). A distinction must be drawn between preparatory acts and steps in the process of manufacture itself. The removal of Sudafed tablets from blister packs is similarly preparatory. Prosecutions for possession of precursors with intent to manufacture should be brought under s 24A rather than s 24 of the Act.
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