CANNABIS IMPAIRS MENTAL FUNCTIONS

Sir-David Round's article (March 4) is full of rhetoric, short on
substance. Cannabis can indeed be worse than alcohol (a red herring
argument - these are both important issues) in helping to destroy
young lives, permanently impairing mental functions. Its use is linked
to schizophrenia. Any pretence that it is a harmless substance is
simply untrue. The pro-cannabis liberal push for what, in effect would
be increased usage, is destructive to younger people. Its tragic
consequences can include lack of motivation, depression, suicidal tendencies.

Families are testifying to these consequences. Mr Round, a non-parent,
pontificates that "it can be hard to bring up children well", but
breathtakingly asserts he sees no evidence that children go wrong
because of cannabis. He claims not to be pro-cannabis, merely pro
common sense. It is good to see his argument is disinterested.
However, decriminalising soft drugs has, overseas, produced an
increasing use of hard drugs.

A.J. Brooke
March 14, 2000