Source: Evening News, Norwich

Pub Date: June 1992

Author: Alun Buffry

1 FEEL I must reply to the letter from Janice Mansell (Evening News, June 1). While agreeing that we need to feed the world, I must disagree with her comments on legalising cannabis.

Those of us who call for legalisation are not as Ms Mansell suggests, encouraging people to ruin their lives by taking cannabis. And we are not

In fact, it is the "sick" laws, which persecute peaceful cannabis users that we object to. Cannabis has been used for over 5000 years and, despite tougher laws and more police funds fighting ft, seems as if it is here to stay.

If people choose to take the almost harmless but intoxicating herb why should they be punished? A previous letter from Mrs C. Smith suggesting that legalised cannabis could help feed the world makes sense: Ms Mansell's suggestion of donating 4Op a day to her funds makes sense. Fining and imprisoning cannabis users and suppliers does not make sense.

We cannot force people, whether smokers or drinkers, to donate money. However, tax revenue on legalised cannabis - which would be a new source of revenue could be donated, in part, to the starving millions. Would our Government do this?

There is enough food in the world, why do we not share it?

A Buffry

Terence Avenue,

Sprowston.