RECREATIONAL DRUGS NOT A CRIME

Re: "The war on drugs is already lost," July 13.

The war on drugs was lost from the start, based on the faulty premise
that the Criminal Code is the appropriate way to address a medical problem.

The Criminal Code should be reserved for real crimes -- those acts
that intentionally, or by wilful negligence, cause direct harm to others.

Using recreational drugs, in and of itself, does not harm others, and
criminalizing such activity drives it underground, to the enormous
profit of criminal gangs.

The government should not act in loco parentis; its proper role is to
provide the legal framework within which adults can enjoy the vices
of our choice in a peaceful, orderly and responsible manner (which
would also eliminate the present incentive to get young people hooked).

Unfortunately, Big Daddy Harper will continue to be the Hells Angels'
best buddy by perpetuating the very laws which underpin their wealth and power.

Elizabeth Woods,

Victoria.