NDP Response / Position on S-10 - NDP Leader Jack Layton

Thank you for your past email outlining your concerns over marijuana laws in Canada.

 

Regrettably, the Conservative government has reintroduced legislation to impose mandatory minimum sentences for drug crimes. Bill S-10, an Act to amend the Controlled Drug and Substances Act, follows up on their flawed legislation from last session, Bill C-15.

 

New Democrats opposed Bill C-15 and continue to believe that this type of legislation is wrong-headed and costly. The attached letter by my colleague and NDP Spokesperson for Drug Policy Libby Davies, MP expands on our position.

 

Looking forward, we remain committed to seeking other alternatives to the Conservatives’ heavy-handed US-style war-on-drugs approach. We think it is time for a common sense drug strategy in Canada, one that addresses drug use from a public health perspective.

 

Again, I appreciate hearing from you. All the best.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jack Layton, MP (Toronto-Danforth)

Leader, Canada’s New Democrats