The Government does not intend at all to promote the use of cannabis in the country, which is included in the list of drugs in many other countries, Indigenous Medicine State Minister Sisira Jayakody said in Parliament yesterday.
In response to a question raised by the Opposition Leader, the State Minister said that the government does not even expect to give legal permission for consumption and transportation of cannabis for recreational purposes.
However, the government has focused on the possibilities of growing Hemp-based products for export only and the related feasibility report is expected to be tabled in the near future.
“The government only focuses on the possibilities of growing Hemp-based products for export. We expect to table the related feasibility study report in the near future. It is also not possible to issue liquor permits from a distance of 100 meters from schools, places of worship. Drafts are currently being prepared to amend the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol Act including the amendment to prohibit the sale of single cigarettes and the sale of cigarettes and liquor within 100 meters of schools and places of worship,” he further said.
