Howard Marks, Poster Boy for Cannabis, Doubts Safety of Drug The man who made a career, in and out of prison, from cannabis has for the first time expressed concern about its links to mental illness in the light of reports in The Independent on Sunday. David Connett reports Howard Marks, the one-time "King of Dope", is a living icon for campaigners for the legalisation of cannabis. But yesterday he admitted for the first time that he is concerned about links between cannabis use and schizophrenia. Marks, better known as Mr Nice - one of 43 aliases he used when running his worldwide drug empire and the title of his best-selling autobiography - said more medical research into the issue is vital. Marks admitted he was uneasy over growing evidence which suggested that being "stoned and being off your head" may be connected. By that, he meant the temporary high from the drug and long-term mental health illness. [continues 357 words]
If you want to take the "high" road to Scotland, head for Edinburgh, where there is growing pressure for the city to approve cannabis cafes in an attempt to create an "Amsterdam of the north". Support for the move is rising as the traditionally conservative city builds a reputation for street parties and liberal tolerance. It is also planning a CCTV-protected "tolerance zone" for prostitutes. Pete Irvine, one of Scottish tourism's most influential voices, has backed calls for the cannabis cafes. [continues 561 words]
