LETTERS

A Drug dealer writes: In the eyes of the law I am an "organised
criminal" which couldn't be further from the truth. I deal in small amounts
to a circle of friends and what profit I make I smoke myself about 7g
(£26) per week. I am at the end of a chain of distribution which ultimately
is connected to some very dangerous individuals and I really don't relish
this aspect. I would be much happier were I allowed to cultivate cannabis,
or, better still, buy it like alcohol or cigarettes. The war on drugs has
been instigated with no public inquiry, no consultation. I love my country,
and would do anything for the good of my community, so why does my country
treat me as a criminal?

I was only 20 when I was diagnosed with MS and totally paralysed down my
right side. At hospital I was administered a course of steroids. My weight
ballooned from seven to 14 stone. I was fat and miserable, with little
hope. After taking cannabis I have never looked back. I have never had
another serious attack and my condition is now quite stable. Smoking
cannabis has got me arrested and locked in a prison cell. I am not a
criminal.

Lezley Gibson, Cumbria

Everyone knows that alcohol is bad for you. Moderate use of cannabis
does not cause antisocial behaviour. The most obnoxious thing I have
witnessed when someone is stoned is a fit of giggles.

Edward Stevens, Devon

I feel strongly that cannabis should not be denied to people in pain. I
suffer from back pain. Cannabis has musclerelaxant properties which can
alleviate pain caused by muscle spasm. I was prescribed diazepam and became
addicted after 14 days.

Clare Coyle, Bristol

I am a student at a Christian Rehab centre. I abused cannabis for 12
years. It destroyed my future and I started to use other drugs like
tamazepam, diazepam and valium. I'm not a religious nut but I have been set
free from junkie bondage by Jesus.

Tony Hughes, Wales