Pubdate: Sat, 10 Nov 2001
Source: Waikato Times (New Zealand)
Contact:  http://www.mapinc.org/media/486
Author: Stephen McIntyre

CANNABIS MORATORIUM

The recent announcement that Britain may soon change its cannabis laws so 
that use and possession are no longer an arrestable offence (Waikato Times, 
October 24) will hopefully spur our own Government to start heeding calls 
for a cannabis moratorium here.

The moratorium provides no end in itself - it simply allows more New 
Zealanders the freedom to take part in the Health Select Committee's 
cannabis inquiry without fear of arrest.

In response to the British initiative, Green MP Nandor Tanczos has called 
for an amnesty on medical marijuana users. This is the bottom line on 
immediate action the Government could be taking.

Health Minister Annette King continues to refuse to accept applications 
from New Zealanders who get medical relief from cannabis. Her position on 
this is short-sighted and lacking compassion. The minister, it seems, would 
prefer to criminalise patients than to empower them!

STEPHEN McINTYRE

  Media officer,

Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party,

Christchurch