Uruguay's new marijuana bill stirs controversy

(Vatican Radio) An international anti drugs organization is warning that Uruguay is flouting global agreements and treaties about narcotics, by legalizing the growth, sale and distribution of marijuana.


Listen to James Blears' report...


The International Narcotics Control Board says Uruguay signed the 1961 Convention on Narcotics pact, opposing drugs, their nurture, distribution and sale. Marijuana falls slap bang into that definition and category.


The Board also points out that Uruguay has not properly thought out the considerations of addiction, the negative influence on the young and certain long term health problems.


President Jose Mujica and his Administration argue that time has moved on. They say that controlling what has been a an illicit activity will reduce crime and that appropriate legislation will be in place by April.


Other Latino nations are closely watching these developments, and so is Washington, as it goes RIGHT to the very heart of its anti narcotics policy.