METHAMPHETAMINE ACTION

Duncan Eddy is obviously not aware of the 19 action items I announced on
May 22 to combat methamphetamines.

The methamphetamine action plan addresses reducing demand and limiting the
harm caused by methamphetamines as well as controlling supply.

I make no apology for increasing the penalties for those manufacturing or
supplying methamphetamines and the allocation of increased enforcement
resources to apply those penalties.

The misery created by the exploitation for profit of drugs such as
methamphetamine overwhelms Mr Eddy's arguments.

The action plan does, however, provide for more education, information and
strengthening of affected communities to combat the spread of
methamphetamine addiction.

This year's budget includes $2.55 million a year for 15 community action
initiatives which support communities resisting methamphetamines in their
areas.

The Progressive Party is committed to reducing the demand for drugs and
reducing crime through policies which bring about full employment and
ensure we have thriving local, regional, and national communities.

Jim Anderton MP, Chairman of the Ministerial Action Group on Drugs