THERE IS NO REASON TO OPPOSE LEGALISATION OF CANNABIS

I STRONGLY disagree with the article written by Tim Hollis, the Chief
Constable of Humberside, regarding the reclassification of cannabis
(Yorkshire Post, January 2). I do not take issue with the concept that
smoking cannabis carries health risks, but with the concept that the
Government has any obligation, or right, to restrict its use.

Behind the statistics for drug related illnesses and accidents are
human beings; people with the ability to calculate risks and make
judgments based on their own risk assessment.

As long as the information that cannabis does pose significant health
risks is widely available, the Government has no reason to keep it
illegal.

Regarding social problems, cannabis is one of the least problematic
drugs; in particular it does not encourage violence or active
anti-social behaviour as alcohol does.

The greatest social problem with any drugs is the illegal dealers, the
high unregulated prices they charge and the crime that results from
the two.

The recent ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces has nullified the
argument that those who chose not to smoke it would have it inflicted
upon them. The only remaining argument against legalisation is that
cannabis related accidents and illnesses would increase and cost the
NHS and therefore the taxpayer.

The same argument is used to enforce many "health and safety" related
laws. If the NHS is to be used as a tool for oppression, then quite
frankly, we should not have it. The bubble wrap culture the Government
is inflicting on the public is far, far more damaging to our society
than any terrorist, drug or melting iceberg.

Alan Gill, Malton, Ryedale.