Clarke right to base cannabis decision on evidence rather than hysteria - Oaten

12.00.00am GMT Thu 19th Jan 2006

Mark Oaten MP "right to base his decision on the best available evidence, and not on hysteria or political pressure"

Responding to Charles Clarke's decision today to retain cannabis as a category 'C' drug, Mark Oaten MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, said "Charles Clarke is right to base his decision on the best available evidence, and not on hysteria or political pressure.

"Cannabis is not harmless, but it is less harmful than many other illegal drugs. Increasing the criminal penalties for personal possession of cannabis would have done little to reduce the level of use or the impact on public health."