FREE HEROIN GIVEN TO DUTCH DRUG ADDICTS

THE HAGUE (Reuters) -- The Dutch health ministry is extending an experiment
to distribute free heroin to hard-core drug addicts after a three-month
pilot scheme proved a success.

In the first phase of the revolutionary scheme, launched in July, 24 addicts
in Amsterdam and 21 in Rotterdam received heroin hand-outs. Participants
were monitored for signs of health and behavioural problems.

"There were no serious, undesired side effects in terms of public order,
criminality and medical safety," the health ministry states.

The next phase of the experiment, conducted by the Central Commission for
the Treatment of Heroin Addicts, will draw in 750 drug addicts spread over
eight locations in several Dutch cities.

The United States and France have criticized the Dutch government for its
lenient approach to drug abuse and tolerance of so-called coffee shops that
sell marijuana.

The Netherlands maintains its goal is to cut hard drug use and promote the
health of those addicts unable to kick their habit.


Checked-by: Rolf Ernst