MP’s anger after pot bill blocked

A LABOUR MP has slammed colleagues for “filibustering” and preventing a debate on the legalisation of cannabis.

Former frontbencher Paul Flynn said that he was “ashamed” to be a member of the Labour Party after his Bill, which would make the drug legal for medicinal use, was blocked from debate in the Commons.

Mr Flynn’s Bill could not be considered by MPs after a prolonged debate on another Bill which would give voter rights to those who have been living overseas for more than 15 years.

Mr Flynn intervened in that debate to tell MPs that a protest was occurring outside the Houses of Parliament where there would be a debate on the “cruel effects” of present legislation.

The Newport West MP, in his point of order, referenced the case of six-year-old Alfie Dingley whose parents are pursing a licence to use cannabis to treat his epilepsy.

The Home Office had previously denied the family’s request for a licence as the drug is illegal in the UK.

Mr Flynn said: “There will be a public demonstration outside in which democracy will work and we will have a debate on the cruel effects of the present law on young children and those in serious health difficulties, including a young boy who is suffering.

“What’s happened here today has been a filibuster organised by one party, I am ashamed to say I’m a member of that party.”

Deputy Speaker Eleanor Laing rejected Mr Flynn’s claim of a filibuster.

Mr Flynn’s Legalisation of Cannabis (Medicinal Purposes) Bill has been listed again for second reading on July 6.