The presenter, Evan Davis, explained that other countries (including Canada) had already taken this step, as well as many states in the USA.  He introduced a report from New York by a correspondent describing “how life has changed there” and then interviewed Professor Akwasi Owusu-Bempah of Toronto University, described as an expert in drugs policy. In his final question Mr Davis asked him “in three words” whether other countries should follow Canada’s example: “Are you basically thinking it’s worked?”.  Professor Owusu-Bempah replied “Do it now, those are my three words” prompting laughter from Mr Davis.

In the ECU’s view the decriminalisation and/or legalisation of cannabis possession is a controversial subject in the UK, even if the controversy is not “active” in the sense of there being legislation before Parliament or immediate prospect of it.  However, the question of the social effects of legislation is not, on its own terms, a matter of controversy, and is open to empirical exploration. It was therefore legitimate for the programme to question an expert on those aspects, and there was no need for an alternative viewpoint in that connection.

Taken as a whole the sequence highlighted negative as well as positive social consequences of changing the law. The presenter’s laughter should be seen in the context of the succinct nature of the response rather than any expression of a personal view.  But in posing his final question,  he invited an opinion on a matter of controversy.  Professor Owusu-Bempah having expressed unqualified support for immediate legalisation, in the ECU’s view there was a need to remind listeners of the existence of opposing opinions.
Partly Upheld