Evidence ‘evolving’ in cannabis debate
The prime minister’s chief scientist says the science behind legalising cannabis is uncertain, though it appears making recreational use of the drug legal may reduce harm.
Professor Juliet Gerrard and a panel of scientists have issued a summary of international evidence and regimes for legalising cannabis, as requested by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
‘‘The evidence is mixed and constantly evolving ... It’s important to remember that our local experience would depend on our unique environment and approach,’’ Gerrard said. ‘‘The key question isn’t whether cannabis does harm – we know it does for some users, but not for others. This is true whether we legalise it or not.’’
New Zealanders will vote on whether recreational use of cannabis should be legalised at the polling booth at the general election in September. The referendum will be held alongside the vote for legalising voluntary euthanasia. The Government has produced a bill that would enter Parliament if a ‘Yes’ vote is successful that would allow cannabis to be consumed, sold, and purchased for recreational use, by people 20 years or older.
Gerrard and the panel of scientists offered no view on how the public should vote in the upcoming referendum.
‘‘It comes down to personal judgment. Is the proposed regulatory framework likely to reduce harm, or not? And how much weight do you give to the social harm that is caused by the current illegal status of cannabis?’’ she said.
The scientists found there was a higher risk of serious health problems if cannabis use began at a young age. There was no evidence of ‘‘dramatic’’ change in cannabis use by young people after the drug was legalised, Gerard said.
Panel member Professor Tracey McIntosh, who is also the Ministry of Social Development’s chief science adviser, said the legalisation could reduce the harm caused by current laws prohibiting cannabis use.
‘‘The evidence shows that Ma¯ori are more likely to be arrested for and convicted of cannabis-related offences than non-Ma¯ ori ... Legalising cannabis could have important positive implications for social equity outcomes, particularly for Ma¯ ori.’’