Parliament is to debate whether medicinal cannabis should be introduced as a treatment option for people with serious illnesses.

The concept forms the basis of Green MP Metiria Turei's private member's bill which has been pulled from the ballot. The Bill aims to amend the The misuse of drugs act (1975) and from here goes to the select commitee for further discussion.

Ms Turei says the bill will allow registered medical practitioners to prescribe cannabis for specific serious conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, glaucoma and those suffering conditions associated with chemotherapy.

Perhaps this issue will spark wider debate on the decriminalisation/legalisation of cannabis both within the Green Party and wider society.

Medicinal cannabis is available in a number of countries - including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and nine states of the US.

Check out what Metiria says

# posted by gareth @ 4:47 PM