Pubdate: Fri, 04 Oct 2002
Source: Independent  (UK)
Copyright: 2002 Independent Newspapers (UK) Ltd.
Contact:  http://www.independent.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/209
Author: Robert Sharpe
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n1845/a08.html

HOW TO BEAT HEROIN

Sir: The practice of prescribing pharmaceutical grade heroin to addicts was 
standard in Britain from the 1920s to the 1960s ("Britain's first heroin 
shooting gallery' set to open", 30 September). In response to political 
pressure from the United States, prescription heroin maintenance was 
discontinued in 1971.  The loss of a controlled distribution system and 
creation of an unregulated black market allowed the number of heroin users 
to skyrocket.

The tough-on-some-drugs approach favoured by the US is a threat to public 
safety. Attempts to limit the supply of drugs while demand remains constant 
only increase the profitability of drug trafficking. In terms of addictive 
drugs like heroin, a spike in street prices leads desperate addicts to 
increase criminal activity to feed desperate habits.

Switzerland's heroin maintenance trials have been shown to reduce 
drug-related disease, death and crime among chronic addicts. If expanded, 
heroin maintenance would deprive organised crime of a core client base. 
This would render illegal heroin trafficking unprofitable and spare future 
generations addiction.

ROBERT SHARPE

Program Officer

Drug Policy Alliance

Washington, DC
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MAP posted-by: Beth