STEVE Clements puts forward a most compelling argument in favour of cannabis use ('Let's have tolerance', August 19) and even plays on our collective consciences by suggesting that the criminalisation of the use of cannabis is a crime against humanity in general and the disabled in particular.

His article, obviously well researched and no doubt biased, quotes some impressive statistics to support his argument; an argument which he regularly promotes through the letters pages of the Evening Press.

However, as usual, Mr Clements carefully fails to mention the fact that the use of cannabis can, and too often does, have a dangerous and potentially fatal effect on the brain in that its use distorts a person's judgement and ability to think clearly and quickly (much like alcohol in fact).

By all means seek a strictly controlled form of medication based on cannabis which will help the disabled, but let's not have a free-for-all on its availability and use.

There are already too many road accidents, often fatal, which are a direct consequence of the use of this substance.

A Dobinson,

Askham Lane,

Acomb, York.

Updated: 12:10 Monday, August 22, 2005