HYDROPONIC DRUG LAWS TO TOUGHEN

PARLIAMENT will begin debating tough new laws to stamp out the hydroponic
growing of marijuana when it resumes today.

The Government plans to make growing cannabis using hydroponics a criminal
offence.

At present, anyone growing up to three plants can pay an expiation fee.
This will remain in force, but will not apply to plants grown hydroponically.

The Government also will review licensing arrangements for hydroponic
stores in a move to combat the use of the equipment for growing cannabis.

Police Minister Robert Brokenshire said yesterday the review had been
sparked by the rapid rise in the number of hydroponic stores in Adelaide.

``We obviously have no problem with the legitimate use of hydroponic
equipment for growing backyard vegetables such as lettuce or tomatoes,'' he
said.

``However, we now have 96 hydroponic shops in SA - the highest number per
head of population in the country.

``I don't believe that is because we grow more hydroponic lettuce than any
other state.''

Opposition Leader Mike Rann said he would support the crackdown on
hydroponic stores.

``It is a conscience issue and I will be supporting the legislation,'' Mr
Rann said.

``In my personal view the number of hydroponic shops seems way out of
kilter with the level of community interest in hydroponically grown
vegetables and flowers.

``Many of the large-scale hydroponic crops are part of highly organised
operations and we must crack down on criminal gangs.''

Human Services Minister Dean Brown said the Government was confident it
would get the new hydroponics ban through Parliament - especially the Upper
House where the Government does not have the numbers.

He said one hydroponically grown cannabis plant was likely to yield 500g of
product - equivalent to the average user's yearly intake.

Mr Brokenshire said the review of hydroponics shops would consider imposing
new laws, including prohibiting the sale of hydroponic equipment by anyone
not licensed and restricting licensing to people of good repute who pass a
police integrity test.

People with criminal records or those who associated with known criminals
would automatically fail such a test. The minister will take submissions on
the licensing arrangements until December 21.