Despite claims to the contrary, cannabis is addictive, according to a survey by American National Institute of Drug Abuse. Almost half said they became irritable after giving up, and many were bored as a result of coming off the drug. Relaxing qualities Of all its so-called qualities, cannabis is best known as a relaxant. Cannabis can ease conditions such as high blood pressure, which exacerbates stress and can lead to premature death. In the wake of England's virtually trouble-free defeat at the hands of Portugal during the Euro 2000 football contest, police in Eindhoven, Holland, said the drug had relaxed fans.
Society slows down The relaxing effect can go too far.
Research shows the drug affects almost every system of the body, slowing down reaction times, causing drowsiness and confusion. Britain might also become a more forgetful society. Even in small doses, dope smoking is known to cause short-term memory loss. In extreme cases it can cause hallucinations and paranoid delusions. Already a sought-after destination among overseas travellers, Britain could expect to see a jump in the 25 million overseas visitors it gets every year as dope smokers from abroad set out to enjoy our liberal drugs law.