DRUGS MARCH TAKES TO THE STREET

MARCHERS calling for the legalisation of cannabis were today parading
through the streets of the capital.

Organisers under the umbrella of the International Cannabis Coalition
stress that this will be a peaceful protest to end the prohibition of
cannabis.

Artist Caroline Coon, who is a guest speaker at the event, said: "If you
make drugs like this outside the law they become exciting to young people.

"It is difficult to educate them about the dangers of something which is
illegal and so there is a higher risk that they will secretly go on to try
hard drugs with disastrous effects.

"London mayor Ken Livingstone wants to get drug dealers off our streets.
But by banning drugs you just drive dealers underground and create a huge
Mafia in which it is difficult for the police to remain incorruptible.

"Drug dealers and manufacturers need to be brought within the law so drugs
can be controlled and licensed in the same way as alcohol and nicotine."

In 1967 Ms Coon founded RELEASE the 24-hour helpline for young people with
drugs problems. She has been campaigning for the legalisation of cannabis
ever since.

Today's London event will be mirrored at venues around the world.

Speakers will include author of Mr Nice Guy, Howard Marks, jailed for
cannabis smuggling, former lead singer with The Clash, Joe Strummer, and
comedian Mark Thomas.