MISGUIDED DRUG POLICIES

Columnist Robert Novak is seemingly incapable of applying basic
economic principles to drug policy [''Dems balk at support for
Colombia's drug war,'' June 26]. As long as there is a demand for
drugs, there will be a supply. Destroy the Colombian coca crop and
production will boom in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador. Destroy every last
plant in South America and domestic methamphetamine production will
increase to meet the demand for cocaine-like drugs.

Instead of waging a futile supply-side drug war abroad, we should be
funding cost-effective drug treatment here at home.

Robert Sharpe, policy analyst, Common Sense for Drug Policy

Washington, D.C.