TORIES DO U-TURN ON HARDLINE DRUG POLICY

The British Tory party yesterday retreated from their hardline
zero-tolerance policy on drugs with party leader William Hague announcing
the proposals would be sent back for further consultation.

Less than a week after toasting shadow home secretary Ann Widdecombe when
she announced plans for pounds 100 fines for anyone caught with the
smallest amount of cannabis, Mr Hague acknowledged there were ``concerns''
about the policy.

He said: ``The proposals we have made are on the table but they need
further consultation, discussion and debate.''

The move will be seen as a U-turn for the Tories and a bitter blow to Miss
Widdecombe.

Her plans had been criticised by police as well as senior figures within
her own party and this weekend seven Conservative frontbenchers admitted
taking cannabis when they were students.