Candidates '05

Michael Britnell, Waimakariri electorate candidate.

Michael is ALCP's deputy leader, and is self employed in the tourism industry.

"Cannabis Prohibition is a lie of mind boggling proportions. The law states we can't use this miracle plant, while allowing criminal gangs to flourish from the illegal trade. Laws that don't apply if you are rich, but if you are a youth or poor, will be used to break your spirit, crush your freedom of thought and deny your basic rights for life.

"Our families and communities are divided by the drug war creating an invisible apartheid. The crux of the Drug War is divide, rule and conquer. It destroys our individual and national sovereignty and makes us ripe for corporate takeover. Prohibition promotes crime, corruption, poverty and community breakdown. Prohibition did not work for alcohol and is a failed policy for cannabis.

"Our hemp policy creates wealth, promotes bio-fuel and helps save the environment. Our R18 legalise cannabis policy produces savings from both direct and indirect costs of prohibition, and opens the door to a huge tax potential from the incredible hemp industry, creating new money for schools, health and social services.

"I have been actively involved in the ALCP since 1996. Since then, two government Health select committees, with members from all parties, have recommended the law be changed. I believe the ALCP serves as a vehicle to present the ultimate solution to this problem and I will keep working to keep the issue in the mix until it is sorted out. I am here for the long haul.
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