All 1 Debates between Bob Seely and Nick Hurd

Tue 20th Feb 2018

Medical Cannabis

Debate between Bob Seely and Nick Hurd
Tuesday 20th February 2018

(6 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Nick Hurd Portrait Mr Hurd
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What the Government do is listen to the independent, statutory Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs, which has been very clear that

“the use of cannabis is a significant public health issue. Cannabis can unquestionably cause harm to individuals and society.”

We cannot just ignore that expert advice. As I said in my statement, there is a precedent for medicines, including controlled drugs such as cannabis and Sativex, to be issued with a licence to enable trials.

--- Later in debate ---
Bob Seely Portrait Mr Seely
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Looking around the world, it seems to me that the case for medical cannabis is somewhat overwhelming, although I understand that the Minister is in a difficult position at the moment. Does he think that there will ever be a time when medical cannabis is legal in this country, so that its benefits can be felt by those who need it?

Nick Hurd Portrait Mr Hurd
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Of course, policy must be evidence-led, so Governments of all colours must keep the evidence under review. I think that the next critical milestone will be the output of the WHO review. Cannabis is a highly complex substance, and the review is looking at it from every angle to try to give us the most definitive, up-to-date view on its medicinal and therapeutic benefits.