Criminalisation hasn't worked, says doctor
A general election candidate in Ramsey says he would like to see a complete review of drugs legislation in the Isle of Man.
Dr Alex Allinson has made the comments in response to a question from a Facebook group called 'IOM Cannabis Social Club'
He says for too long the Island has "followed a reactionary British agenda which seeks tighter prohibition, contradicting the huge body of scientific evidence that criminalisation of illicit drugs does little to reduce use, and puts people at risk."
Dr Allinson goes on to say that if elected, he would campaign initially for the decriminalisation of possession, allowing cannabis for medical reasons.
In the longer term he would seek a consultation on the legal cultivation of the drug on the Island and look at the models some American states have developed for the legalisation of it.
He would also look to improve the funding and profile of the government's Drug and Alcohol Team, to better allow them to help people who develop problem use.
The other candidates standing in Ramsey are Nick Crowe, Lawrie Hooper, John McDonough and Leonard Singer.
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