ALL ACTION

You are right to draw attention to confused messages in the fight against
drugs (Editorial, August 9). But we should be wary of reducing this
fiendishly complex debate to a matter of competing simple slogans.

It isn't a case of 'Just say no' versus 'harm reduction'. We need to strive
across the whole spectrum, preventing as many people as possible from
trying drugs, reducing chaotic behaviour in those who have acquired a habit
(leading to less crime, less self-harm, less social disruption) and helping
those on drugs to come off them.

The fundamental key is to encourage self-esteem and a sense of future
prospects in young people.

The UK drugs czar has pointed the way - coherently - to a comprehensive
approach. We need to follow this lead. He said it will need more resources
- - our experience in Glasgow mightily confirms that.

C J Spry, chair, Greater Glasgow Drug Action Team

Checked-by: Richard Lake