LEGALISATION of cannabis would raise billions in tax, free up police resources and deprive criminal gangs of income. But let’s pretend there’s a bad side.
However, for the sake of ‘balance’, there are probably a few minor disadvantages if you look hard enough. Here’s a look at the pros and, supposedly, cons:
PRO: Cannabis is already used by four-and-a-half million otherwise law-abiding Britons without major negative effects on society.
CON: Cannabis is a ‘gateway’ drug, although so is Ibuprofen if you’re that way inclined.
PRO: Legalising and taxing cannabis would provide a major new source of income for ailing public services.
CON: EasyJet flights to Amsterdam would be hit hard, cancelling at least eight routes per week with possible redundancies.
PRO: Cannabis is a naturally-produced substance which can have significant medical benefits.
CON: Police would no longer have a ready-made reason to arrest young men who may then be found guilty of, or fitted up for, other crimes.
PRO: Cannabis is notably less physically harmful than alcohol and causes fewer fights outside kebab shops.
CON: Jamaican dub music is very bass-heavy and could disturb the neighbours.
PRO: Being stoned is fun.
CON: Those Reefer Madness films from the 1930s are terrifying.
Which side is correct? You decide!
