Pubdate: Mon, 16 Apr 2007
Source: Mirror, The (UK)
Copyright: 2007 The Mirror
Contact:  http://www.mirror.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1161
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?207 (Cannabis - United Kingdom)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/coke.htm (Cocaine)

NEVER QUIT DRUGS WAR

FOR decades governments have set out to win the war on drugs with 
hard-hitting campaigns.

But a high-powered commission has concluded that the strategy of 
prevention has achieved little.

The impact of drug abuse on society, ranging from crime, disorder, 
family breakdown and the enormous cost to taxpayers, cannot be over-estimated.

Innocent families have been ripped apart by murders committed by drug 
addicts who also suffer mental illnesses.

This week the UK Drugs Policy Commission will warn that the 
popularity of illegal substances is soaring.

Cocaine and cannabis use is rising rapidly among youngsters and the 
UK has the highest level of problem drug use in Europe.

There are signs of hope as the Labour government is spending record 
amounts on drug treatment after decades of under-investment.

As we wait for evidence of progress, plans must be speeded up to put 
more addicts into treatment to stop them stealing to feed their habit.

And police must be more effective in putting big-time dealers and 
traffickers behind bars.

Desvair can never be allowed to prevail in this critical battle 
against a stubborn scourge.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman