WHY OUR DRUG LAWS NEED TO CHANGE

I WELCOME the growing signs of change in our drug laws. We in the
Scottish Socialist Party have been arguing for years, alone among the
political parties, for the legalisation of cannabis and the supply of
heroin on the NHS through prescription as part of a treatment
programme. Yet we were attacked as being soft on drugs.

I don't drink or take drugs and don't wish to encourage anyone to
take up drugs. However, I note that one in four young people in
Scotland takes cannabis, whereas only 4 per cent of young people in
Holland take it where they have coffee shops.

What we really need is to legalise cannabis and break the link with
drug dealers. Also, for heroin addicts to get their prescription on
the NHS . This would take them off the streets and reduce
drug-related crime.

The new Scotland could help to shape the new politics on drugs.
Perhaps in a few years' time, the SSP's policies will no longer be
regarded as outlandish.