DON'T GIVE UP ON DRUG FIGHT

Dr Penington says it is unrealistic to think we can turn the illicit drug
trade around (The Age, 15/2). Why? Other harmful social behaviors have been
reversed.

For example, 30 years ago about 60 per cent of the population used tobacco.
Today the figure is under 30 per cent. Social pressure, advertising bans and
education helped to turn smoking around. Why cannot such an approach be used
with illicit drugs?

Dr Penington and the State Government support the "harm minimisation"
approach to illicit drugs. This in effect says, "young people will continue
to use drugs. so let’s make it safer".

This is a counsel of despair. Imagine trying such an approach on young
drink-drivers. "Well, they are going to do it anyway, so let’s at least make
it safer for them. Let’s set up drink-driving rooms where they can practise
driving while drunk."

The current approach to drugs by the Bracks Government deserves equal
disdain.

BILL MUEHLENBERG. national secretary, Australian Family Association.