HEROIN INQUIRY URGED

THE Howard Government is dancing to the tune of Asian drug bosses by
claiming victory in the fight against heroin, a drug law reform group says.

It has accused the Government of lying about the effectiveness of its $516
million Tough on Drugs strategy in creating a heroin drought in Australia.

Brian McConnell of Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform wants a
judicial inquiry to test the Government's claims.

He said there was strong evidence from police and crime authorities which
shows Asian drug lords have simply made a marketing decision away from
selling heroin to flooding Australia with methamphetamines.

"The Prime Minister and his ministers have said that Tough on Drags is
totally responsible. We believe that this is not true," Mr McConnell said.

"If it was law enforcement then it played a minor role in the event."

But intelligence adviser to the Australian Federal Police Dr Sandy Gordon
said the heroin drought in Australia was unique.

A combination of diffIculty in importing heroin and ease with importing
amphetamine-type drugs meant they were now more prevalent in Australia. he said.