Subj: Scotland: PUB LTE: Review of drugs legislation overdue



Date: 29 Apr, 1999



Source: Scotsman, The  (UK)



Author: Tom Wood, Deputy Chief Constable, Lothian and 

Borders Police 







ubject: Review of drugs legislation overdue



Sir, - I strongly object to the assertion in your report (23 

April) that I retracted an earlier statement on the 

decriminalisation of cannabis, which I made at a conference 

in Edinburgh. I did not retract, I explained.



What I explained was that a speaker had said that it was 

time for a fresh look at the cannabis issue, and said it 

might be time to decriminilise its use.



In asking a question, I had agreed it was time for a fresh, 

comprehensive look at drugs legalisation, with nothing ruled 

out and nothing ruled in. I believe this because the main 

legislation governing dangerous drugs is nearly 30 years 

old, and society has moved a long way in the interim. A 

reassessment is long overdue.



In my explanation. I pointed out that it is not for the 

police to make the law; our job is to enforce it. It is for 

the Government, and to some extent society in general, to 

decide on the law. As an interested and involved individual, 

I am entitled to a view. Let me make my position clear. I do 

agree, after 30 years in the police, that the time has 

arrived for a completely fresh look at law enforcement in 

relation to drugs. I also believe this about alcohol.



Both have a pernicious impact on society, and are catalysts 

for criminal activity ranging from theft to assaults and, in 

the case of alcohol, widespread domestic violence and 

disruption. They can have a devastating effect on the health 

of those who use them, and that has a considerable impact on 

health services.



I do not, personally or professionally, advocate the 

legalisation of cannabis, because I do not know enough about 

the medical pros and cons of using the substance to make 

that judgment. I do believe in an open debate, especially 

one in which those with genuine expertise and knowledge are 

able to contribute their views. The new chapter about to 

open in the governance of Scotiand may be the opportunity 

for that to happen. That was why I raised the subject.



I acknowledge that your editorial (also 23 April) was fair 

and balanced, but that cannot be said of your report.





Tom Wood

Deputy Chief Constable

Lothian and Borders Police 

Fettes Avenue, Edinburgh