Cannabis Party's New Board Welcomes Breakthroughs

The Cannabis Party, which held its annual conference this weekend, has welcomed news of a cross-party breakthrough on medical marijuana in Australia.

"New Zealand should follow the lead of Australia and establish a new regulatory framework for medicinal cannabis." leader Julian Crawford said.

"The bill was co-sponsored by the Greens, Labor, Liberal and Liberal Democratic parties and has the support of Prime Minister Tony Abbott."

Crawford also welcomed news that Alaska, Oregon and Washington DC have legalised cannabis for recreational use in recent mid-term elections.

The Cannabis Party is calling on Peter Dunne to introduce a new regulatory framework for approving medical cannabis.

"The regular pharmaceutical model has been determined to be insufficient by Australian authorities for meeting patients needs," Mr Crawford said.

"Prohibition of medical marijuana in New Zealand needs to be abolished and a similar approach taken to Australia."

Crawford said the party had a productive AGM with a strong Executive Board elected.

Emma-Jane Kingi was elected deputy-leader, following her strong performance in Te Tai Tonga.

Abe Gray was elected President while Dr Richard Goode remains as Vice-president.

Crawford said the Cannabis Party was committed to standing in the next general election.

ENDS

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