Pubdate: Sun, 30 Sep 2001
Source: Observer, The (UK)
Copyright: 2001 The Observer
Contact:  http://www.observer.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/315
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

PROTESTERS URGE BONGS NOT BOMBS

CAMPAIGNERS for the legalisation of cannabis marched through central London 
yesterday carrying banners urging 'Bongs Not Bombs'.

Speakers at the rally in Trafalgar Square included Labour MP Paul Flynn as 
well as Howard Marks, the convicted drugs smuggler turned popular speaker 
and best selling author.

Demonstrators handed out copies of Properganja, the newspaper of the 
Cannabis Coalition UK, which organised the event.  The group wants cannabis 
to be legalised and sold through licensed premises and non-profit making 
co-operatives.

Campaigners also called for the clearing of all cannabis-related criminal 
records dating back to 1928, the year in which the drug was outlawed in 
Britain.

A spokesman said: "The recent progress towards decriminalisation is to be 
welcomed but only a complete, total lifting of prohibition and allowing 
social consumption will do."
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager