Pubdate: Fri, 11 Jan 2008
Source: Times, The (UK)
Copyright: 2008 Times Newspapers Ltd
Contact:  http://www.the-times.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/454
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n028/a02.html
Author: Janice Small

IT MAY BE TOO LATE TO RECLASSIFY CANNABIS

Sir, I can't help thinking that Gordon Brown is reclassifying cannabis
not because of new evidence but because it is a vote winner among
concerned parents.

I visit schools, hospitals, drug rehab centres and counselling
services, and listen to teachers, parents, children, counsellors,
addicts and ex-addicts, and am told by the police that the worst piece
of legislation passed by this Government was the downgrading of
cannabis. They tell me that their hands are tied and that the users
believe it is now legal and that the police will not touch them.

I have seen the devastating effects skunk has on teenagers and their
parents. This drug is mind altering and I have witnessed too many boys
who are flunking exams, giving up sport and stealing to get money for
the next fix, which is readily available in sleepy villages as well as
town centres.

Too little, too late, Mr Brown, for a number of our
children.

Janice Small

Platt, Kent
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake