To the Editor:

Let us hope that Gen. Barry R. McCaffrey continues to make drug policy
recommendations based on scientific evidence (news article, Oct. 3).
Next issue: needle exchange programs. There is a tremendous body of
literature supporting the expansion of needle exchange programs to
reduce the spread of diseases like AIDS and hepatitis.

It is unfortunate that General McCaffrey is adamant about not using
Federal money for needle exchanges; however, nothing is stopping him
from urging state and local governments to review the literature and
make decisions for themselves. This would require minimal political
capital and zero expenditure and would send the signal that needle
exchanges are not destructive and are worth considering.

BEAU KILMER Berkeley, Calif., Oct. 3, 1998