CANNABIS MORATORIUM

The recent announcement that Britain may soon change its cannabis laws so
that use and possession are no longer an arrestable offence (Waikato Times,
October 24) will hopefully spur our own Government to start heeding calls
for a cannabis moratorium here.

The moratorium provides no end in itself - it simply allows more New
Zealanders the freedom to take part in the Health Select Committee's
cannabis inquiry without fear of arrest.

In response to the British initiative, Green MP Nandor Tanczos has called
for an amnesty on medical marijuana users. This is the bottom line on
immediate action the Government could be taking.

Health Minister Annette King continues to refuse to accept applications
from New Zealanders who get medical relief from cannabis. Her position on
this is short-sighted and lacking compassion. The minister, it seems, would
prefer to criminalise patients than to empower them!

STEPHEN McINTYRE

Media officer,

Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party,

Christchurch