DUTCH TO EXTEND FREE HEROIN HAND-OUTS TO ADDICTS

THE HAGUE, Nov 24 (Reuters) - The Dutch health ministry said on Tuesday it
would extend 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 behavioral problems.

``During the first phase there were no serious, undesired side-effects in
terms of public order, criminality and medical safety,'' the health ministry
said in a statement.

Some heroin users had complained about the quality of the heroin on offer,
however.

``The Central Commission for the Treatment of Heroin Addicts (CCBH) is
trying to find a solution,'' the ministry said.

The next phase of the experiment will draw in 750 drug addicts spread over
eight locations in several Dutch cities.

``The CCBH will report back to the minister on positive and negative side
effects,'' the health ministry said.

The United States and France have criticised 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: Don Beck