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Dutch Debate Ecstasy Legalisation

Author: Jonty Skrufff (Skrufff.com)
Saturday, September 13, 2003
Holland's main opposition group The Green Left Party called for policing policy on ecstasy to be brought in line with cannabis this week, suggesting such a move could reduce young people's use of the drug.

"Ecstasy is - next to cannabis - the illegal drug [most widely] used for recreational purposes in the Netherlands, mainly by youth in party time," Green Left spokesperson Caroline van Dulleman told Radio Netherlands.

"The use of cannabis in the Netherlands in youth - let's say drug starters - is far less than for instance, in the US. And the US has a very repressive policy."

The Green party's call coincided with a drugs scandal involving Dutch police which could lead to cops being banned from Holland's world renowned coffee shops. A local TV show reportedly uncovered evidence of widespread ecstasy use within the police force, with some Amsterdam cops 'being so high on ecstasy that they couldn't even find Amsterdam's main shopping street."

Following the scandal, Dutch authorities announced they're to ban cops from coffee shops to prevent concerns over hypocrisy.

"A police officer has an exemplary role to fulfil and has to show some authority," Government Minister Johann Remkes told the Guardian.

"They could be in a difficult position if they have to stop and search people for drugs."

Meanwhile in the UK, ministers confirmed they'll be looking at introducing random drug tests for British cops, after top cop Kevin Morris admitted some could be users.

"I think we have to be realistic that with over 130,000 police officers some will be tempted, " Superintendent Morris told the Standard.
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