Drug users need supports not a criminal record and stigma

UNWITTINGLY pre-empting the findings of a comprehensive six-year study into drug enforcement measures, published this week, the late comedian Bill Hicks said: “I know this is not a very popular idea.

You don’t hear it too often any more but it’s the truth. I have taken drugs before and I had a real good time.”

The UK Drug Policy Commission (DPC) — which, by way, is not comprised of stoner wasters but, rather, leading scientists, police officers, academics and experts — has recommended the decriminalisation of possession of small amounts of controlled drugs, saying such a measure would not, despite hysterical claims from some quarters, lead to a significant increase in use.