Canada passed legislation on Tuesday evening to legalise the recreational use of cannabis, making good on an election promise by Justin Trudeau's Liberal Party.

The Cannabis Act completed its final step in a 52-29 Senate vote. It means Canada will be the first of the G7 advanced industrial nations to allow the cultivation, purchase and consumption of the drug nationwide once it comes into force.

Jody Wilson-Raybould, the country's justice minister, said: "This is an historic milestone for progressive policy in Canada as we shift our approach to cannabis.

"This legislation will help protect our youth from the risks of cannabis while keeping profits out of the hands of criminals and organised crime."

Medical use has been legal in the country since 1981.