1 Dec 2010

PM questions effectiveness of drug utensil ban

9:08 am on 1 December 2010

Prime Minister John Key says he doesn't think a ban on importing drug utensil components will be successful.

Importing drug utensils is already illegal but the the Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament, aims to stop people getting around the law by importing utensils in parts.

The Health Select Committee this week recommended the Government's Bill be passed.

Mr Key says while he hasn't seen the committee's report, he is aware the implements used by drug users are often also used for genuine and practical reasons.

And he says the Government can't outlaw people making their own implements.

His comments have come as a surprise to members of the committee. Green Party MP Kevin Hague says the Prime Minister should be praised for listening to the arguments and reviewing his stance.