MEDIA RELEASE -- SEPTEMBER 19, 2005

Crushing Defeat For Cannabis Prohibitionists And "Moral Right" Says NORML

The election result has put cannabis law reform back on the agenda, says Chris Fowlie, President of the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.

"A hugely expensive campaign to knock the Greens out of Parliament, run by the Exclusive Brethren, was a flop. The so-called "Moral Right" made stopping cannabis law reform a big issue, and they failed dismally," he said.

Mr Fowlie pointed to the "desperate efforts" by the smaller parties, especially NZ First and United Future/Outdoor recreation, to pick up votes by promising to stop any cannabis law changes.

"Prohibition does more harm than good, but these small parties are only interested in playing on the fears of parents for political gain.

"All the prohibitionist parties - NZ First, UFO and Jim Anderton's Progressives - played the anti-drug card but they all lost votes and MPs. Maybe that's a signal from the NZ public that it doesn't believe in criminalising young people who use cannabis," said Mr Fowlie.

Mr Fowlie said NORML was determined to capitalise on the crushing defeat of the prohibitionist and their big-money backers from cult religions.

"About 500,000 adult New Zealanders use cannabis every year. NORML is about to send its new "Cannabus" on nationwide tour, with new leaflets to bring the message to all New Zealanders that there is a better way to deal with drug problems than criminal sanctions. We especially want to reach all NZ parents with that message", he said.

ENDS

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