PSAEW: Position statement on reclassification of cannabis
Thursday, 3 April 2008
12:00 AM
The Superintendents' Association of England and Wales supports the reclassification of cannabis as a Class 'B' drug.
The downgrading to Class 'C' sent out the wrong message, unintentionally suggesting that cannabis was harmless and legal.
The production and supply of cannabis is often controlled by organised crime groups, with associated violence, exploitation of vulnerable people and money laundering.
Prolonged use of cannabis is de-motivating, can cause psychotic conditions and is damaging to physical health. This has been exacerbated by the wider availability of stronger forms of the drug. Many heroin and cocaine users began their drug dependency with cannabis use in their teens.
The Superintendents' Association supports re-classification of cannabis to Class 'B' because it will send out a clear message - especially to the vulnerable and the young - that cannabis is illegal and can be dangerous.
The Police Superintendents' Association of England and Wales
67A Reading Road, Pangbourne, Berkshire, RG8 7JD
Tel: 0118 984 4005 Fax: 0118 984 5642
E-mail: enquiries@policesupers.com
Website: www.policesupers.com
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