BANS DON'T WORK

WHY should we accept the idea that certain substances should be prohibited?
Many substances, including coffee, tobacco and alcohol, have been subject
to prohibition at various times through history, but what benefits have
prohibition brought?

If we compare the Netherlands with the U.S., we can see that a liberal
attitude contributes to a less violent and more productive society. Also,
drug prohibition has failed its most primary objection - control of supply.

In most cities it is easier for teenagers to obtain illegal drugs than it
is to obtain a drug which is legally available to adults - alcohol.

If substances were available legally there would no longer be astronomical
profits to be made. We need only to think of alcohol and the U.S. of the
Twenties to realise that prohibition provides a 'shot in the arm' for
organised crime and establishes widespread government corruption.

Of course, ending prohibition of illegal drugs and asking that adults be
legally responsible for their behaviour towards others is something that is
too sensitive for politicians to risk being heard talking about.

That doesn't mean it isn't the most sensible option, or the one which
respects individual freedom the most.

Michael Nendick
Ware, Herts