420 Singles News - George Michael: Marijuana 'Keeps Me Sane and Happy'January 6, 2007 British television network ITV said the singer lit up while
being interviewed for the arts program "The South Bank Show." The interview is due to be
broadcast Oct. 31.
"This stuff keeps me sane and happy," Michael, 43, told the
program.
"I'd say it's a great drug — but obviously it's not very
healthy. You can't afford to smoke it if you've got anything to do."
A spokeswoman for "The South Bank Show" said the interview
had been conducted in Madrid, Spain, where marijuana consumption is legal. In
September, Michael launched his "25 Live" tour — his first in 15 years — in
Spain.
Earlier this month, the former Wham! singer was given a
formal warning for possessing marijuana after police found him slumped over the
steering wheel of his car in north London.
He was also cautioned for possession of the drug in
February. Marijuana users can be sentenced to up to two years in jail for
possession in Britain, though in practice, most people found with small amounts
are given a warning.
Paul Corry, a spokesman for mental health charity Rethink,
said Michael's comments were "stupid and naive.William Butler, spokesman for drug treatment charity said he was "concerned about the message
this can send out to young people." "Cannabis is illegal because it can be harmful, as can all
drugs," he said.
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