MOST FAVOUR CANNABIS FINE

WELLINGTON -- A new poll has shown most people in favour of the introduction
of instant fines for cannabis possession as the Government embarks on a
review of the drug laws.

The One News/Colmar Brunton poll of 1000 voters found 55 per cent supported
spot fines, and 40 per cent were against.

The Government is reviewing cannabis law, and has signalled it is keen to
move in the direction of partial decriminalisation so people will not get a
criminal conviction for small amounts of marijuana.

Any change will be subject to a conscience vote of MPs, so they will not be
bound by party policy.

Prime Minister Helen Clark has said she personally prefers the introduction
of instant fines, similar to those for driving infringements, for possession
of small amounts of the drug, and Health Minister Annette King has said she
did not believe the public wanted to totally legalise cannabis use.

Last night's poll had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.2 per cent.