RANN SIGNALS DRUG SUMMIT

Young drug takers and their parents will help officials tackle the growing
use of amphetamines and designer drugs if Labor is elected in SA.

Opposition Leader Mike Rann said yesterday he would convene a major drug
summit within three months if he became premier early next year.

"I do not want a talkfest but I want police, judges, health and welfare
experts and young people themselves, to help us map out a strategy to deal
with the threat of drugs that can endanger lives and even lead to death,"
he said.

"We are hearing more and more stories of amphetamines being sold in our
schools and nightclubs and other entertainment venues. What worries parents
like myself is that kids might be sold drugs which cannot be identified."

In recent weeks, seven people have been treated for overdoses of the drug
fantasy.

Mr Rann said the target of investigations would be outlaw motorcycle gangs
that made and sold amphetamines, and nightclubs which "appear to be willing
accomplices".

"I want the summit also to examine issues such as early intervention for
vulnerable children, the effectiveness and availability of counselling
rehabilitation, detoxification services and the education of young people,"
he said.

Labor justice spokesman Michael Atkinson will investigate if the law needs
to be strengthened for those dealing in amphetamines.

Police Minister Robert Brokenshire said:"We've been talking tough on drugs
for some years now and have had to drag Labor kicking and screaming to the
table," he said.