Cannabis was a burning issue at the PLP Delegates' Conference at the weekend as party members debated: 'Moving Bermuda Forward: Drugs in our society'.

Decriminalisation was a hot topic at the Friday session, with views generated both for and against.

PLP spokesman Wentworth Christopher however, denied the forum was aimed at formulating policy.

"It was a general discussion on cannabis rather than a view to influencing policy or legislation," said Mr. Christopher.

He admitted however the subject of legalisation could be broached at a future date.

"It is a topic which has attracted interest in some quarters but it has not come to the Conference at this stage," he said.

"The session was meant to be a dialogue to understand each other's perspectives, and no recommendations were made.

"We discussed the drug's presence in the community. I would not say extreme views were expressed one way or another. Some people felt it should be decriminalised but others felt the law should remain as it is."

Mr. Christopher added: "In the fullness of time a position may be taken but it would be speculative on my part to say if and when."

PLP Delegates' Conference panelist Makai Dickerson said he felt the session had been productive.

"There were people for and against. It went both ways," he said.

"It will have to be discussed further to see how the party stands on the issue. I feel it also needs to be discussed with the general public."

Recommendations on other issues debated will now be tabled and voted on at the reconvening of the Delegates Conference in January.

Conscription and the inclusion of sexual orientation in the Human Rights Act however, will not be among them. Mr. Christopher said both issues were absent from the agenda.