LEGALISING INCREASES OPPORTUNITIES FOR ABUSE

Sir-Nandor Tanczos's logic is dopey (March 1), arguing that
legalisation of cannabis will remove drugs from playgrounds. He argues
that prohibition inculcates it.

Legalisation will not negate human abuse and irresponsibility - legal
or illegal. The recent legal drinking but drunken abuse at Carisbrook
is an example, as is the ongoing problem of drink-driving.

Following Green Party logic, decriminalising drink-driving would make
it disappear.

Legalisation of soliciting for prostitution in Australia increased the
abuse and vice in the industry; what was previously hidden simply came
out onto the streets, and grew.

Legalisation simply increases opportunities for abuse. "Legalising"
will not remove a thing's inherent negatives.

JOHN STRINGER
March 1, 2000