ALCP candidate in the Botany By-Election, Leo Biggs, is calling on the government to legalise cannabis to help fund the re-building of Christchurch, rather than cut Working for Families and interest-free student loans.

Enforcement of the cannabis laws currently costs the taxpayer half a billion dollars a year, with expenses spread between Police, Courts, Probation, Prisons and the Air Force.

“Christchurch has been devastated by this earthquake, real solutions are needed now that don't put the burden on families and students," said Leo Biggs.

"$500 million dollars a year would be enough to prevent service cuts for families and students while contributing to funds required to rebuild Christchurch,” Mr Biggs said.

The ALCP also oppose any earthquake levy or increased tax burden on a struggling economy.

“Cannabis commerce also offers a further $500 million annually in expected in revenue, making cannabis reform a billion dollar a year package,” he concluded.

Leo Biggs is inviting Botany based supporters to vote for him in Saturday's By-election.

ENDS

© Scoop Media