Midweek Column: Are we losing drugs fight?

Written by Mike Bell and published in Mercury Midweek on Wed 23rd Sep 2009

IS WESTON losing the drugs fight? Week after week we read in the newspaper about crimes being committed related to drugs. Last week a man was found dead in a property described as a past 'junkie house'.

When will those in power realise the softly, softly approach to Weston's drugs problem is not working? It's time to get tough. Politicians promised us action and were elected to make things happen, but since the last general election drug crime in North Somerset has doubled.

We deserve results not empty words. Now is the time for a fresh start and real change. I live in the town centre with my young family and don't want my son growing up seeing drug dealers, dirty syringes and houses surrounded by police tape where violent crimes have been committed in the name of drugs.

I am calling for zero tolerance and the police and courts to work together to dish out compulsory prison sentences to everyone found dealing drugs. Weston should build a reputation for throwing the book at those guilty of drug-related crime and stand up for the hard-working residents and businesses who have put up with the problem long enough.

The best way to get action is to elect someone who lives in the town and sees the problems every day. Someone who can't hide behind their taxpayer-funded front door hundreds of miles away.

I was born in Weston, live in the town centre and walk past drug addicts daily. Help me campaign to make our town safer for our families. Vote for change.