Look to the strong evidence on cannabis reform

IN response to John Batt's letter regarding the results of the cannabis referendum (ODT, 3.11.20), even before the special votes are counted, nearly 50% voted for legalisation.

I think it’s a bit unfair to push a stereotype of Yes voters as ‘‘sandalwearing intelligentsia’’.

Yes voters have come from all walks of life and wear all manner of footwear.

I don't think Mr Batt delved too deeply into the facts before casting his vote, either.

He says teenagers are now less likely to get on the drugs ladder and move on to harder drugs. Evidence shows us that in states where cannabis has been legalised, consumption rates have actually decreased.

Also, the suggestion of cannabis as a gateway drug is not supported by actual facts, and besides, if cannabis was available legally, youngsters would be less exposed to the dodgy characters also peddling meth. I wonder if he has ever considered alcohol a gateway drug?

Mr Batt then urges the police to double down on their war on drugs. Please remind me how much money has been spent on the war on drugs already, and yet weed is still out there available for anyone, without the controls that legalisation could bring.

Doubling down on their efforts wouldn't be the smartest or most effective use of money.

Andrew Glennie

Taieri Mouth

Fruit picking

IT is my understanding that most horticulture and vineyard workers are on contract: no statutary holidays, no annual holidays, no pay when raining or trees wet, sometimes selective picking by colour.

Having to carry 20plus picking baskets of fruit, and up ladders. Accommodation and petrol is paid for by workers.

Historically, employers provided free accommodation, free meals, and free smoko breaks with fresh baking.

Given the cherry profits in Asia, there is no excuse for not paying a decent hourly rate to employees.

You will then get staff, not slaves. Murray Jones

Cromwell