DRUG PANEL REVOLT OVER FIRED CHIEF PROFESSOR DAVID NUTT

The Government was facing a revolt last night over the sacking of its
drugs adviser.

Two members of the drugs advisory council have already quit in protest
after chairman Prof David Nutt was fired.

And in a leaked letter other scientists say they must now ask if they
can continue in "good conscience".

The letter said the remaining 28 members have "serious concerns" about
Professor Nutt's dismissal.

It also said: "For some members these matters are of such seriousness
as to raise the question whether they can, in good conscience,
continue on the council."

In a bid to quell the rebellion, Home Secretary Alan Johnson said he
would meet the council shortly.

He insisted his problem was with Prof Nutt himself for his failure to
recognise that his role is to "advise rather than criticise".

Nutt was axed after saying ecstasy and cannabis did less harm than
booze and fags.