Former Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia has described as ‘unbecoming,’ comments made by Parliamentary Secretary for Health Chris Fearne in reaction to his call for the government to consider therapeutic use of cannabis.

Dr Fearne when questioned by Times of Malta yesterday said the governemnt would consider the matter if there was a request from industry or from a professional body, such as the Medicines Authority. (See http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140610/local/fearne-government-would-consider-therapeutic-use-of-cannabis-on-medicines-authority-recommendation.522820 )

Reacting on Facebook today, Dr Farrugia said: Chris's statement is an unbecoming comment from a professional colleague.’

Labour MP Marlene farrugia, Dr Farrugia’s partner, was more forceful. “Politicians can come up with any reasonable request on behalf of the people they represent,” she said. “ It is then up to the executive government to take up any suggestion and spearhead the process for the realisation of the material in question through the necessary authorities, or decide outright not to pursue the issue , which it has every right to do, as long as it is accompanied by the necessary explanations.

“It is outright stupid to say that politicians should not come up with such suggestions! Arrogance per excellence!”