Pubdate: Tue, 26 Apr 2005
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 Times Colonist
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/victoria/timescolonist/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: Chuck Beyer

NDP NO FRIEND OF POTHEADS

I can understand Ted Smith's desire to find a provincial party that
supports marijuana law changes. I support the federal NDP as they
endorse an enlightened position. However, the provincial NDP and
Liberals are unrepentant prohibitionists.

Recently my attempt to create a provincial NDP position was thwarted.
Under provincial rules, to create a resolution for a provincial
convention it needs to be accepted by NDP members within your
electoral district.

Shortly before the last B.C. NDP convention I had a resolution
approved by a majority in the district of Victoria-Beacon Hill (Leader
Carole James's district). The resolution called for the provincial NDP
to endorse the Canadian senate committee report in regards to
provincial regulation.

That resolution just "disappeared" on the way to the convention and
was never voted on. I am sure it would have passed, in which case
there likely would not be a Marijuana party in this provincial election.

So Ted -- forget it. You will see nothing but the usual obfuscation
from the provincial NDP. And busting potheads creates plenty of union
jobs.

Chuck Beyer

Victoria.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin