Canadian Government Pledges to Legalize Recreational Marijuana

MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Johnston said in a Friday throne speech released by local media that "the government will introduce legislation that will provide greater support for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault; that will get handguns and assault weapons off our streets; and that will legalize, regulate and restrict access to marijuana."

Trudeau’s promise to launch a process that would lead to the legalization and regulation of marijuana contributed to the Liberal Party’s victory in the October 19 general election. Unlike Johnston, the new prime minister, who is the leader of the Liberal Party, never mentioned restricting access to marijuana.

Marijuana procession is illegal in most countries, with China, France and Norway having some of the strictest cannabis laws.

Canada is among the countries with the least restrictive laws on marijuana. Although the possession, sale and cultivation of cannabis is illegal in the country, it is tolerated in some cities. Marijuana use for medical or industrial purposes is legal in Canada with government issued license.