As somebody whose views on the decriminalisation of drugs have evolved over time, I am open to arguments in favour of using low-strength cannabis for medicinal purposes.
Between 2011 and 2012, an estimated 8.9% of adults admitted to using an illegal drug. For young people aged between 16 and 24, this figure was 19.3%. Although this is the lowest level of drug use since the Government started collecting figures in 1996, drug misuse continues to have a negative effect on the health, wellbeing and quality of life of too many people.
I believe that the current drug policy is in need of reform, and instead of criminalising those who use drugs, I believe that the Government should concentrate their efforts on discussing the wider issues surrounding drug usage in the UK, such as the health reasons which drive a person towards drugs, how addiction can be tackled and increasing education in schools.