Pubdate: Sun, 08 Nov 2015
Source: Sunday Herald, The (UK)
Copyright: 2015 Sunday Herald
Contact:  http://www.sundayherald.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/873

DRUGS DEBATE MUST START

ALL debate is good. So, we welcome calls today for an informed 
discussion in this country around drugs. We know the absurdly titled 
'war on drugs' has failed miserably - criminalising ordinary men, 
women and children for recreational use of drugs such as cannabis. We 
also know that Scotland sees itself as a progressive, intelligent country.

Progressive, intelligent countries are not afraid to debate difficult 
issues. This is not about campaigning for decriminalisation. This is 
about Scotland debating how best to deal with a very real drug 
problem and making an informed choice about how to proceed.

The world is already leaving us behind. Ireland has just joined the 
list of countries moving towards decriminalisation, and next year, 
the issue will be high on the agenda as the UN meets to discuss the 
failure of global drug policy. We can not stand on the sidelines. 
Just because drug laws are reserved to Westminster, that does not 
mean Scotland can not make its voice heard - and even get this much 
needed debate started across the UK.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom