THE BENEFITS OF ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO

Sir,

The benefits of alcohol, none for anyone under 65. But last year alcohol
accounted for 1035 deaths in New Zealand. The benefits of tobacco, none.
But has the highest rate of addiction than any other drug, and is
responsible for 4700 deaths each year in New Zealand.

The benefits of cannabis, many. Cannabis is the only known annually
renewable natural resource able to provide the overall majority of our
paper, textiles and food, meet all out transportation, home and industrial
energy needs. No deaths.

The NZ National Drug survey calculated that the retail value of cannabis is
estimated between $84.3 -$140 million each year. Why not let the
government tax this resource and take it out of the hands of organised crime.

The Nelson/ West coast district is ideal for growing cannabis, imagine the
boost to the local economies, as well as being able to produce our own
fuel, removing our dependency from raising fuel prices, as well as all the
other benefits that would arise from removing cannabis prohibition,
unclogging court and police time.

It's the right thing to do!

Steven Wilkinson