THERE is growing evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment for a range of illnesses, the problem is that it is illegal.
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However, that might change if Labor wins the state election in November with Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews declaring on the weekend that he would legalise cannabis for the treatment of certain conditions.
Under strict controls, Victorians suffering from life-threatening conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma and Parkinson’s Disease would be able to access and take cannabis without breaking the law.
A move to legalise cannabis for medical purposes only would be a brave step in the right direction and comes after public campaigns by Victorian families who have had some success in treating sick relatives with the drug.
The Victorian Law Reform Commission will advise on how it will work — the prescription, manufacture and distribution process being key elements in any successful transition.
Mr Andrews is right when he says it is time to update what is an outdated law. As things stand, parents and relatives are being forced to choose between breaking the law and helping out their loved ones.
It is a dilemma that no one who is caring for a sick child for instance should have to face.
There will be some who think that this marks a dangerous first step towards the legalisation of other drugs but that is not the case.
This is not about illicit drugs or recreational use of cannabis or marijuana and once the law reform commission reports back to parliament by the end of the year that much should be made clear.
The Australian Medical Association is supportive of the move as long as it is carried out against the backdrop of clinical trials and not just based on the law reform commission’s assessment.
Politically speaking, Mr Andrews is sticking his neck out with this issue, but it is unlikely to do his election chances any harm.
It is a prudent and progressive course of action.