Prohibition provides no protection for children at all. It is easier for them to obtain cannabis than to get hold of cigarettes or alcohol.
While the brain is still developing, any psychoactive substance has the potential to cause harm.
The only ID that a street dealer asks for is a £20 note.
A properly regulated system would mean cannabis was available only through licensed outlets for adults only. Personal cultivation licences would be available and healthcare services and advice provided without fear of arrest or prosecution.
Children and the vulnerable would be much better protected under regulation. Our political leaders know this perfectly well but they put their personal political advantage and their fear of tabloid headlines above the difficult task of grasping this nettle. Our prime minister, our home secretary, our drugs minister – simply, they prefer their careers to our children.
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