Restore Respect for Law, End Cannabis Prohibition

NORML to Collins: Restore Respect for Police by Ending Cannabis Prohibition

NORML President Phil Saxby today called on Police Minister Judith Collins to restore public respect for law enforcement by calling an armistice in this country's prolonged "war on drugs".

In response to recent attacks on Police Officers, Ms Collins has been quoted as saying that "it’s extremely important to rebuild the respect and fear for the law."

"Fear of the law isn't the problem," said Mr Saxby. "What has been eroding away in New Zealand is respect for the law and then by association, those who enforce it."

"The Misuse of Drugs Act created the so-called "war on drugs" which is actually a war on ordinary Kiwis. After thirty-five years of criminalisation, the 400,000 people from all walks of life who currently use cannabis justifiably feel marginalised and discriminated against."

"A large number of Kiwis aged 15 and older fear the police to some degree. Many have personal experience of heavy-handedness and intimidation by officers looking for cannabis. Over time, this fear turns into disrespect and resentment," Mr Saxby said.

"Cannabis is not a violence-inducing drug. Cannabis smokers are not going to attack Police Officers. Alcohol is far more likely to be the cause of a violence, yet it can be bought in supermarkets."

Mr Saxby pointed out that New Zealand continues to have the highest rate of arrests in the world for cannabis - mostly for simple possession. "While few people arrested for cannabis possession are sentenced to jail, but many of them will spend time in jail during pre-trial procedures."

"If the Police Minister wants to restore public faith in our Police force then she should immediately call for an armistice on cannabis arrests. The United Nations and the Law Commission agree that police effort should be shifted towards drug suppliers, and away from criminalising users."

"I believe all law-abiding New Zealanders want to feel safe around a police officer, and this includes cannabis users; the vast majority of whom see themselves as normal people and certainly not criminals," Mr Saxby concluded.

ENDS