Pubdate: Wed, 15 Mar 2000 Source: Press, The (New Zealand) Copyright: 2000 The Christchurch Press Company Ltd. Contact: Private Bag 4722, Christchurch, New Zealand Fax: +64-3-364-8238 Website: http://www.press.co.nz/ Author: A. J. Brooke Note: Headline by Editor CANNABIS IMPAIRS MENTAL FUNCTIONS Sir-David Round's article (March 4) is full of rhetoric, short on substance. Cannabis can indeed be worse than alcohol (a red herring argument - these are both important issues) in helping to destroy young lives, permanently impairing mental functions. Its use is linked to schizophrenia. Any pretence that it is a harmless substance is simply untrue. The pro-cannabis liberal push for what, in effect would be increased usage, is destructive to younger people. Its tragic consequences can include lack of motivation, depression, suicidal tendencies. Families are testifying to these consequences. Mr Round, a non-parent, pontificates that "it can be hard to bring up children well", but breathtakingly asserts he sees no evidence that children go wrong because of cannabis. He claims not to be pro-cannabis, merely pro common sense. It is good to see his argument is disinterested. However, decriminalising soft drugs has, overseas, produced an increasing use of hard drugs. A.J. Brooke March 14, 2000 - --- MAP posted-by: Allan Wilkinson