Pubdate: Mon, 20 Apr 2015
Source: Mercury, The (Australia)
Copyright: 2015 Davies Brothers Ltd
Contact:  http://www.themercury.com.au/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/193
Author: Loretta Lohberger
Page: 6

CANNABIS TRIAL SUPPORT SWELLS

TWO more states have joined a medicinal cannabis trial being led by
NSW.

The Queensland and Victorian governments both announced yesterday they
would become involved in the trial.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said her Government would
broaden the trial beyond NSW to include Queensland patients, and
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said his Government was working with
NSW to ensure at least a quarter of the participants are from Victoria.

The Tasmanian Government announced its involvement in the NSW trial in
January.

"The medical use of cannabis is a complex issue and we remain
committed to a national, science-based approach," Health Minister
Michael Ferguson said.

"The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to a collaborative
approach to clinical trials with other states and territories."

Mr Ferguson said Tasmania's chief pharmacist was an observer on the
expert panel advising on the NSW trial.

NSW Premier Mike Baird has said his state would play a leadership role
in the trial.

The trial is scheduled to start enrolling eligible patients next year,
with results expected within two to five years.
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MAP posted-by: Matt