Pubdate: Tue, 29 Jan 2002
Source: Manchester Evening News (UK)
Copyright: 2002 Manchester Evening News
Contact:  http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1313
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

POLICE RELEASE CANNABIS MEP

A EURO MP who walked into a Greater Manchester police station brandishing 
cannabis to protest against British drug laws was released without charge.

Marco Pannella, from Italy, is the third MEP to back a campaign to 
decriminalise cannabis.

His colleagues Marco Cappato, from Milan, and Chris Davies, from Cheshire, 
were arrested and charged with cannabis possession after taking part in 
separate protests last month.

But Stockport police decided to release 71-year-old Mr Pannella after he 
refused to accept a caution.

The MEPs support Colin Davies, owner of Stockport's Dutch Experience cafe, 
who is in custody awaiting trial on drug charges.

Mr Davies and Mr Cappato were due to appear before Stockport magistrates 
for committal proceedings today (Tuesday).
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