MORECAMBE'S MP Geraldine Smith is leading opposition to the Government's reclassification of cannabis claiming it sends out the wrong signals to youngsters.

Geraldine has tabled an Early Day motion in the Commons expressing concern at the Home Secretary's proposal to reclassify cannabis as a class C drug.

She claims her constituency is blighted by drug abuse and is worried that the law change will make the situation worse.

"I believe cannabis is an integral part of the misuse of drugs culture and is often the first step on the road to hard drug addiction," said Geraldine.

"I believe that reclassifying cannabis is sending out the wrong signals particular to young people who may now be encouraged to try cannabis and in turn other more deadly drugs.

I think cannabis is a gateway drug and we' re still not sure how harmful it may be.

"There are many groups worried about reclassification."

Under proposals brought in by the Home Secretary, people found using cannabis will be cautioned but sentences for dealers have been increased.

Geraldine added: "The law is now very confusing.

Whilst it will be illegal to deal in cannabis, and dealers can be given longer jail sentences, the people receiving and taking the drug can be cautioned by the police.

"I am, however, in favour of the medicinal use of cannabis for people with conditions such as MS."

l Do you think Geraldine Smith is right to be concerned about the reclassification of cannabis?

Write to our famous letters pages with your views or email greg.morgan@lancaster.newsquest.co.uk