PRESS RELEASE - 20th May 2003

NSW MEDICAL CANNABIS TRIAL AT LAST
The Nimbin HEMP Embassy welcomes with real enthusiasm Bob Carr's announcement today of the proposed medical cannabis trial. "We thought it would never happen" said Michael Balderstone, spokesperson, "it's been a long time coming."

"We know Bob Carr has been pondering this for a long time and we appreciate his considered compassion. He knows first-hand that cannabis provides genuine relief for some patients, where convential treatment cannot do the same job.

"We also know he has been bothered by how to deal with supply of cannabis but it's worth noting that Holland is only now addressing this issue after thirty years of cafe decriminalisation. They plan to supply cannabis to medicinal patients through chemist prescription"

"Many people on the North Coast will be thrilled by this news. This area has attracted genuine medicinal users for a long time, probably because they are more accepted here and cannabis is reliably available."

The NSW State Government says it will introduce legislation to allow a four year trial for the medical use of cannabis.

The Premier Bob Carr says the case for the decriminalisation of cannabis is stronger than ever, but only for people who can't be assisted by conventional treatment.

People suffering from cancer, HIV, spinal injuries and other conditions will be eligible for registration with a new Office of Medical Cannabis.

Opposition leader John Brogden's office told the Hemp Embassy he has agreed to it in principle.

Michael Balderstone
AH 0266 897525