Pubdate: Thu, 26 Jul 2001
Source: Independent  (UK)
Copyright: 2001 Independent Newspapers (UK) Ltd.
Contact:  http://www.independent.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/209
Author: Nigel Morris, Political Correspondent

MPS TO CONSIDER RELAXING THE LAW ON CANNABIS USE

The decriminalising of cannabis will be examined by MPs as part of an 
unprecedented investigation into Britain's drugs laws.

The Home Affairs Select Committee, in its first major inquiry of the new 
parliament, will consider the effectiveness of government policies in 
combating drug addiction.

The decision to venture into such politically contentious territory follows 
increasing pressure from politicians of all parties who want a fresh look 
at the laws on drug use.

David Blunkett, the Home Secretary, marked a shift in government attitude 
this month by saying he was prepared to consider the arguments for 
decriminalising soft drugs.

The committee will take evidence from Mr Blunkett and Lord Irvine of Lairg, 
the Lord Chancellor, as part of its investigation, which is scheduled to 
begin in October.

It will consider the effect that relaxing controls on cannabis use would 
have on the demand for drugs, drug-related deaths and crime levels. It will 
examine the desirability of such a step and look at the practical 
alternatives to decriminalisation. It will also examine the laws on class A 
drugs such as heroin, cocaine and ecstasy.

Chris Mullin, the committee chairman, said yesterday: "There is a big 
debate going on outside parliament among serious people in the criminal 
justice system, including senior police officers, probation officers and 
members of the judiciary. Until now, politicians have tended to shy away 
from it but we think the time has come for a serious assessment of the way 
we deal with drugs.

"We have an entirely open mind so we're not headed for any particular 
conclusion but we hope to bring all different arguments into the open."

Harry Shapiro, a spokesman for the charity DrugScope, said: "We have seen 
evidence in recent weeks that more politicians are ready to take on this 
complex issue and explore the possibilities for change.

"An open and mature debate could help re-engage many, particularly the 
young, in the political process."

The issue moved to the centre of political debate three weeks ago when 
Peter Lilley, a former Tory deputy leader, floated the idea of allowing the 
sale of cannabis in licensed stores. Sir David Ramsbotham, the outgoing 
chief inspector of prisons, has also said he supported legalisation.

Mo Mowlam, who as Cabinet Office Minister was in charge of drugs policy, 
and Keith Hellawell, the Government's anti-drugs co-ordinator, have called 
for debate on the subject.

Police in Brixton, south London, have said they will no longer arrest 
people found using cannabis, a change of policy that supporters of 
legalisation believe will lead to a more relaxed attitude to the drug by 
forces around the country.
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