EX-SMUGGLER DUE AT CONFERENCE

Former cannabis smuggler Howard Marks and an ex-head of Scotland Yard's
drug squad will be among the speakers at a conference in Norwich next month.

The Legalise Cannabis Alliance (LCA) is holding its second annual party
conference at the University of East Anglia.

The alliance, which became apolitical party in 1999, hopes to field up to
100 candidates at the next general election.

Mr Marks stood as a candidate in both Norwich constituencies at the last
election.

Eddie Ellison, the former head of Scotland Yard's Drugs Squad, has also
accepted an invitation to speak.

Alun Buffry, conference co-ordinator, said: "There may be a few surprises
to liven up the day.

"Those who attended last year's conference said they found the day
enjoyable as well as educational."

Barrister Roger Warren-Evans, Caroline Coon, the co-founder of Release,
Ingo Wagenknecht, from the Norfolk Green Party, and prospective LCA
parliamentary candidates Don Barnard, Mark Gibson and Carl Wagner are also
due to speak.

Entry to the conference on March 17 will be by pre-booked tickets only.
Tickets are available by telephoning (01603) 442215.