Holland to ban ‘dangerous’ ‘skunk’ marijuana from coffee shops

Holland is likely to ban 'skunk' marijuana from coffee shops in the wake of fears that it is as dangerous as heroin and cocaine.

The decision will be a major blow to hundreds of coffee shop owners, many of them in Amsterdam, who will have to replace around 80 percent of their stock with weaker varieties.

According to the Daily Mail, Dutch Justice Minister Ivo Opstelten wants the country''s famous licensed cafes to only sell cannabis containing less than 15 percent of the main active chemical, THC.

A report by the Daily Telegraph said that the government is acting on a study by Dutch mental health charity, the Trimbos Institute, which found that skunk can be so dangerous it should be classed alongside heroin and cocaine.

Presently, the country''s liberal laws allow customers to buy up to five grammes (0.18 ounces) of marijuana for personal use in around 500 licensed cafes.

Critics claim the ban, if implemented will make the problem worse by pushing stronger versions of the drug onto the black market.

ALSO READ

Myanmar charges 6 Muslims for sectarian violence

Boston suspect's friend released on bail pending trial

Pakistan remains major buyer of Chinese arms, says Pentagon report

Assad regime behind use of chemical weapons: White House