REPORT URGES CANNABIS TO BE LEGALISED

NSW Cabinet is to consider a report which found most people want cannabis
to be used for medical purposes, particularly for pain relief.

While cannabis is illegal in NSW, the state government is investigating
whether to follow other countries which allow people with serious illness
to use it for pain relief.

A report on the results of community consultation into the drug's usage
released in state parliament today found more than 70 per cent of 117
respondents said its use for medical purposes should be allowed.

Eleven per cent opposed it completely while the rest did not hold a position.

The majority of respondents were private individuals rather than
organisations with most working in the areas of drug and alcohol
counselling and in medical fields.

The report revealed cannabis was already being used illegally by patients
suffering from illnesses from cancer and multiple sclerosis to severe
menstrual pain and migraine.

The drug had relieved symptoms such as pain, depression, appetite loss,
muscle spasm and nausea, according to users.

The key concerns about using the drug related to difficulties in getting it
and the need for a safer alternative to smoking cannabis.

Those against the use of the drug argued for existing approved medication
to be used for pain relief.

These were mainly from anti-drug and religious organisations which raised
concerns that a medical cannabis scheme could be abused or incite corruption.

NSW Premier Bob Carr said state Cabinet would discuss the report's findings
in the coming months.

"The government will keep in mind the risks associated with cannabis, the
range of community views on the subject but also the need for compassion,"
he said.

"I have seen the physical and mental pain, the wasting and nausea caused by
cancer and its treatments."

Mr. Carr said a working party recommendation handed down last year for the
drug to be the subject of government-funded clinical trials would also be
considered.