Wow - super sensible debate. I have been working with drug users in various guises for 15 years. I do agree that legalisation is the only way to control the problems caused on society by illicit drug use. The current prohibition has failed as alcohol prohibition failed in the US in the 20s. The problems caused are exactly the same. Poor quality illegal substances produced in non pharmaceutical conditions leading to huge health problems. Illegal control of drug trade (Al Capone anyone?) and the gangs of South London. A huge amount of personal crime is connected to drug use in some way. However, there is big money in drugs and money = power. There are some big people internationally with a power base part built on this money and they will NEVER relinquish this control. Has anyone noticed how the UN in Afghanistan has totally neglected to do anything about the poppy fields? Ask yourself why! Especially as this was a huge part of their reasoning for invading in the first place. The US has blocked many conuntries previous attempts to decriminalise or legalise certain substances and they will continue to do so by threatening trade bans / sanctions etc. Maybe a conspiracy, but where this sort of money and power are involved, government is not far in the background! Shame, cos it would stop a lot of people dying.