POT LAW CHANGES IN DOUBT

OTTAWA -- Don't expect marijuana to be decriminalized any time soon despite
Justice Minister Martin Cauchon's promises, say some experts and drug
advocates.

Skeptics predict Cauchon's promised legislation will die at the end of this
session of Parliament. They suggest it is merely a time-buying sop.

"There won't be enough time to pass it," said Alan Young, a professor at
Osgoode Hall law school. "He (Cauchon) knows it's going to die on the order
paper."

Last month, a Commons committee recommended people be allowed to possess up
to 30 grams of marijuana without risking criminal penalties.

Cauchon promised to introduce a bill within months but Prime Minister Jean
Chretien has not taken a clear position on the issue.