Dunne on wrong side of UN cannabis debate

Contrary to popular belief, cannabis law reform is "neither imminent or likely" in New Zealand according to Associate Health Minister Peter Dunne.

In the government issues paper relating to New Zealand's official submission to the upcoming UNGASS conference, Dunne said "New Zealand is not currently considering decriminalisation of cannabis (or other controlled drugs) domestically."

"Cannabis is currently a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, and the Government considers that the harms associated with its use warrant its continued illegal status."

The Cannabis Party leader Julian Crawford said cannabis prohibition would never be justified.

"Dunne is being completely disingenuous to claim the government is reducing harm, while it continues to criminalise cannabis."

Most of the harm associated with illegal drugs comes from the cost of enforcing prohibition laws.

"Ending the War on Drugs and a reduction in social harm can only happen once cannabis and other drugs are decriminalised," Crawford said.

"Dunne has revived the discredited Drug Harm Index and even tried to associate the index with the good work of Prof David Nutt. Prof Nutt would be horrified that his name is being used to justify cannabis prohibition."

ENDS

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