German SPD health expert calls on next government to legalize cannabis

'Traffic Light' parties all in favor of legalization
Deutsche Welle (Germany)
Wednesday, October 13, 2021

Social Democratic Party (SPD) health expert Karl Lauterbach ourged the SPD, Greens and Free Democrats (FDP) hoping to form Germany's next government to legalize cannabis should they come to power. Speaking with the Rheinische Post newspaper, Lauterbach said, "I was against legalizing cannabis for years. But now, as a doctor, I have come to a different conclusion." His change of heart was prompted by the fact that police now report finding other substances mixed into cannabis. Lauterbach said legalization would protect consumers. Coalition negotiations between the SPD, Green Party and the FDP are ongoing, with many of those involved voicing optimism about the prospects of success in forming a government. (See also: Why Germany could be on the brink of legalising cannabis)