The problem with the PM’s ‘expert’ panel on weed

The Prime Minister has asked the Chief Science Advisor to provide an accessible summary of the evidence to inform the cannabis referendum, using an ‘expert’ panel. The ‘expert’ panel has been charged with pulling together as much information as we can about the impacts of cannabis, and to present it in a way that is easy to understand for voters.

Here’s the problem.

Of the 10 members of the ‘expert’ panel, SEVEN have declared that they support legalisation of cannabis – and not even one of the panel has expressed opposition.

If you think we’ll get a balanced report, we have a bridge to sell you.

---

For Legalisation 

• Associate Professor Joseph Boden, University of Otago

Supports legalisation.

• Dr Hinemoa Elder, University of Auckland

Supports legalisation

• Professor Benedikt Fischer, University of Auckland

Supports legalisation Has advocated for legalisation in Canada (RNZ)

• Professor Tracey McIntosh, University of Auckland

Supports legalisation

• Associate Professor Khylee Quince, University of Auckland

Supports legalisation – ”if there is no space in any reform to allow people to grow their own, discrimination against Māori will continue.” 3’s The Hui (March 2019)  The SpinOff

Board member Drug Foundation (!)

• Professor Doug Sellman, University of Otago

Supports legalisation

• Associate Professor Chris Wilkins, Massey University

Supports legalisation   

Other

• Dr Tamasailau Suaalii-Sauni, University of Auckland

Researcher / Criminologist – including Pasifika and youth justice issue

• Professor Michelle Glass, University of Otago
• Dr David Newcombe, University of Auckland