CANNABIS LAW 'IS THREAT TO HEALTH'

A CITY drugs expert has warned of a mental health time bomb set to go off,
following the re-classification of cannabis.

Verina McEwen, Peterborough Drug Action Team co-ordinator, said young
people may mistakenly think cannabis is harmless following the change in
law, which will take place on Thursday, January 29.

But she claimed the drug was a factor in 80 per cent of inner-city mental
health cases in the UK.

Mrs McEwen said: "My fear is young people will be confused about the health
risks.

"We know cannabis can be linked to confusion, both short-term and
long-term, depression, and trigger more serious problems, such as paranoia."

Cannabis will remain illegal after January 29, but it will be reclassified
from a Class B drug to a Class C one.

It has been widely reported that people will not be arrested for possession
of small quantities.

However, on Thursday, the Government will launch a ?1 million advertising
campaign, aimed at clarifying what action police will take, and health risks.

Home Office drugs minister Caroline Flint said: "Cannabis is harmful, and
will remain illegal after January 29, when it is reclassified to Class C.

"It is particularly important that we get this message across to young
people, and that under-18s understand they will still be arrested for
possession."

The decision was taken to declassify cannabis to allow police to
concentrate resources on more harmful drugs, such as crack cocaine and heroin.

Dealers of these drugs have been targeted by city police in Operation
Harrier, which saw 75 dealers jailed for a combined 311 years, and last
year's Operation Harrier Two, which saw ?4,000 worth of drugs seized.

Ms McEwan would not comment on whether or not she thought declassification
of the drug was a good decision.

Ms Flint said: "By reclassifying cannabis, we are being honest with young
people about the harm it can cause in comparison to drugs such as crack and
heroin."

The adverts will form part of the Government's ongoing Frank campaign, an
initiative launched in May, aimed at encouraging young people to talk about
drugs.

For advice about drugs, call the Frank hotline, on 0800 776600, or visit
the website www.talktofrank.com.

FACTFILE ­ Health risks

Short-term memory and body co-ordination affected.

First-time users may feel confused and distressed, and anxiety, panic and
suspicion are not uncommon.

High doses can cause coma, but there are no records of fatal overdoses.

Heavy use can lead to confusion, aggravate existing mental disorders, and
sap energy.

Long-term use can cause lung cancer, bronchitis and other respiratory
disorders associated with smoking.

Users may become both physically and psychologically dependent on cannabis.

Studies also show that regular, heavy use of the drug may cause nerve
damage and affect learning.