Cannabis
poses no great risk: published letter
Source: East Anglian Daily Times,
UK
Pub Date: 9 July 2004
Author: Don Barnard
Sir - Forest Heath District Councillor, Eddie Stewart says, he had not heard of
an organisation for legalising cannabis! [Town horrified by cannabis protest
plan EADT Sat 3 July]. Heres one: The Legalise
Cannabis Alliance" (A registered UK political party since 1999).
Introductions over. Now for a short local debate on the real issues which need
priority to discussion. Why is cannabis still illegal? The argument goes
legalising cannabis "may" increase use; "might" lead to
societal destruction; and, a "possible" increased health risks to the
users!
Life is full of Health and Safety risks far more harmful. Every supermarket
sells food items and over the counter medications, many of which if used
inappropriately, may, might or even possibly cause toxic response, gastrointestinal
distress, cardiac arrest, obesity, liver damage, neurological damage and even
death.
How many deaths have there been scientifically attributed to cannabis use? We do not prohibit these substances or
arrest and imprison people who use them. Neither, do we sack them, evict them
from their homes, expel their children from school or take children into care.
Instead, we live with these risks. We try to advise the public with health
promotions, warning the consumer of the potential harms, on the packaging
(except for alcohol). And, we regulate the suppliers!
At the moment cannabis is termed a "controlled drug" in law, but in
practice it is not subject to any form of regulation and is in effect is
totally uncontrolled. Given the wide scale availability and use of
cannabis. Shouldn't cannabis be subject
to similar controls, as we apply other substance we consume every day!
Or, Should we have sniffer dogs on the street, in schools, pubs and clubs and,
random drug tests for secondary school children and the employees of Suffolk
County Council!
Don Barnard
Legalise Cannabis Alliance,
PO Box 198,
Norfolk
NR3 3WB