Pubdate: Fri, 07 Mar 2003
Source: West Australian (Australia)
Copyright: 2003 West Australian Newspapers Limited
Contact:  http://www.thewest.com.au
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/495

DRUG SCHEME BACKED

VETERAN youth worker the Rev. George Davies has urged the WA Opposition to 
take a more broadminded and consistent approach on cannabis.

He took issue with shadow police minister Matt Birney's misgivings about 
the current cannabis cautioning scheme and Government plans to expand it.

Mr Davies said cautioning had been seen as positive when initiated by the 
former coalition government.  It helped avoid costs and alienation 
associated with taking minor offenders to court, and decriminalisation 
could help keep young people away from contact with crime via the blackmarket.

The Government is expected to introduce legislation soon giving police 
discretion to issue an infringement notice or charge a person in possession 
of less than 30g of cannabis or up to two plants.