The legalisation of drugs is not a new concept. In fact, the green party has supported the decriminalisation of cannabis since the 1990s when the party was formed. However, more recently, the current leader of the green party, Zack Polanski, has called for the legalisation of all drugs for the chance to take a “public health approach”. So, what does this mean for the future of Britain?
If this is put into place, there will of course still be a degree of regulation maintained, it won’t be a drug induced free for all. Their aim is to aid those in addiction by making receiving rehabilitation help easier to access without receiving law induced penalties and shame for their actions. Polanski says, “if someone has a problematic relationship to drugs then surely the answer is to make sure they’re seen by a medical professional who can help them.” This goes hand in hand with the Green party’s commitment to a ‘fully public, properly funded health and social care system, and to keeping the profit motive well away from the NHS’.
The following are some of the terms associated with the policy as disclosed on The Green Party’s website:
Review the status of all scheduled substances for medical potential, allowing for controlled cultivation as deemed appropriate for research purposes
Pardon and release non-violent, minor, drug offenders
Support Dual Diagnosis so that the health system may address issues behind drug abuse
Expand Low Threshold Residential Stabilisation Services for holistic treatment
Expedite drug testing services, particularly at festivals, nightclubs etc.
Allow medically-supervised Drug Consumption Rooms for the phased withdrawal of heroin and other substances as deemed appropriate by the Minister for Health
Support drug law reform on an international level
Decriminalise the possession of fewer than five grams of cannabis products
Allow prescription of cannabis-based medicines through pharmacies
Tolerate regulated cannabis “coffeeshops” selling cannabis from licensed suppliers
One of the leading issues with drugs is the street gang related activity that comes along with them. This could change. Part of the Green Party’s policy calls for the introduction of licensed suppliers. The hope is that this would create a safe method for people to acquire drugs without forcing them to engage with criminal dealers. This could also impact on decreasing crime rates through associated activities.
However, some people argue that the implementation of this policy could influence young people to use drugs. Zack Polanski responded to this by stating, “I think the danger is happening right now which is where we’re pushing it into street corners and a black market.”
Let me know what you think in the comments, I look forward to seeing your thoughts!
By Danielle Yr12
Boston High School