MPS URGED TO RESIST CANNABIS LAW CHANGE

A group representing a dozen key educational organisations has written
to every MP urging them to reject any change to cannabis laws.

The Education Accord, made up of the leaders of 12 educational
organisations, representing unions, principals, school trustees,
Maoris and others, said last night that it was so concerned about
moves to decriminalise cannabis that it had written to every MP.

It urged MPs, instead of liberalising cannabis laws, to support the
provision of more effective support services for cannabis users and
their families.

It also called for an effective drug education programme in schools
for pupils from year one to year 13.

The accord said members were worried about the level of cannabis use
among young people and believed decriminalisation would increase the
use.

They were concerned this would lead to higher levels of violence and
ill health in society.

It was important all MPs were fully aware of the harm cannabis caused
to children and adolescents.

"Cannabis causes physiologic damage to developing organs. It also
results in emotional stunting as cannabis causes blockages of the
neural pathways, impeding user ability to exercise reason and sound
judgment."

The educational achievement of children and adolescents was severely
compromised due to the side effects of cannabis use, the accord said.

In the last term of Parliament the multi-party health committee held
an inquiry into the health effects of cannabis and concluded that the
law should be reviewed.

However, debate has continued to rage over whether the committee or
the Government should carry out the review. National has accused
Health Minister Annette King of being "gutless" in proposing that the
committee consider it.